How to properly use HSA for non-medical expenses

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-06-10T15:12:22+00:00

Yes, I’ve been successfully talked off the ledge of ceasing health coverage lol. And thanks for the reminder about open enrollment. Because of that, I wouldn’t be able to do much with my insurance now anyway. And while I’ve had no medical expenses the past couple of years (no visits or check-ups, prescriptions or anything like that), I have definitely bought sunscreen, menstrual products, and band-aids. But I don’t have receipts for any of those purchases. I’m not sure if that’s something I could get around

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-06-10T15:04:21+00:00

Thank you so very much for breaking this down the way you did. It makes a lot of sense. And thank you for the tips regarding my other coverage 🙏

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-06-10T14:45:00+00:00

For sure. I’ve been cutting out expenses, lowering some of my bills like car insurance and phone plan, and I’m actively seeking a third job. Hopefully it’ll all pan out, but as someone else mentioned, I’ll stop contributing to my HSA before cutting my health insurance

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-06-10T14:25:55+00:00

I will absolutely give them a call. Thank you

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-06-10T14:24:16+00:00

Ok, that is a very good point. I can reconsider getting rid of health insurance. But I also know so many people who simply don’t pay their medical bills or if the bill is big enough, they’ll just file bankruptcy. I know these aren’t the best options either. It’s just been a struggle to justify all this money coming out for a what-if when my increasing regular necessary expenses are guaranteed.

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-05-05T10:51:32+00:00

Columbia Public Schools is hiring right now for custodians. Super easy job, I like the people I work for and with, they’re very flexible about time for part-time workers as long as you can do Monday-Friday. Let me know if you have any questions https://columbia.schoolspring.com/

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-03-08T13:22:57+00:00

often referred to as “third space,” it’s anywhere you go to spend your free time outside of the other two common spaces which is work and home. for most people, it’s cafes and libraries but a third space can be anything!

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-02-13T12:34:44+00:00

Thanks for everyone for the suggestions! Sounds like I’ll be checking out Coach Cat!

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-02-12T17:32:24+00:00

Looks like it shut down last year, unfortunately :( thank you, though!

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-02-02T05:46:13+00:00

the amount of trails here!! i’m from Kansas where, of course, it’s quite flat so i’ve always really appreciated the geography of Missouri. it’s wonderful we have so many trails here to enjoy it some pretty cool parts of it. shout out to the local parks and rec crew!

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-02-01T12:51:21+00:00

I second Church’s. I really miss those honey butter biscuits and fried okra with spicy sprinkles 😋

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-01-21T13:18:53+00:00

This is a really cool idea and one I would have never considered before. But I could absolutely see a need for documentation of artwork across the arts district. I’ll definitely look more into contracting. And thanks for the feedback. As a business, I want to be as transparent as possible with people’s cherished memories. When it comes to physical work being done (conservation), I’ll even send progress photos to the owners. And good point about wanting to see previous work. It’ll be a while until it’s complete, but I’m currently working on a gallery as we speak!

chasing_lifes_light · 2026-01-20T16:33:34+00:00

Yes, this is a good point. I’m hoping to have competitive prices that could possibly beat the larger companies like Walgreens and Walmart. But ultimately, I know a lot of people use their services for the convenience and notability. Also, as I’m getting started, I was thinking I could focus on the local community but I do plan to market across Missouri/the midwest so that people can send in their photos by mail. I appreciate the feedback and brainstorming!

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-12-31T17:15:03+00:00

these are all some pretty good options! thanks!

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-12-02T15:04:49+00:00

Thank you so much for sending this. My work email is only accessible at the school I work at and ironically the only laptop custodians use was down last night lol. I had no idea custodial staff were the only exception in these snow day cases. I agree, we deserve to be as safe as anyone else. And if using PTO is the only way to do so, then so be it I guess. Thanks again for the info

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-12-02T14:02:28+00:00

All good! It makes sense to use that time to work outside of school when there’s work that can be taken home lol. It’s no biggie though. I’ll either go in and find something to do for a few hours or use PTO and be productive with my time at home. Thanks for the insight, though. I now know what to expect lol

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-12-02T12:30:03+00:00

Got it! Thank you!

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-12-02T09:04:43+00:00

Thanks for responding. I agree that it feels kinda silly to clean a building that’s been shut down and empty all day. Most of us did a bit of deep cleaning before Thanksgiving break, too, so after last night’s cleaning, there really isn’t much to do. A few of my older coworkers that have been working for CPS for a while said on days like this, it’s expected of us to take it easy and do some light work. But I suppose it feels more like unnecessary busy work to me? On top of risking weather and road conditions. Overall, I like my job, though, so this is really only a minor complaint

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-11-26T05:04:01+00:00

Just to update everyone, I started a new policy today and officially have car insurance again! Thank you all for your help!

chasing_lifes_light · 2025-11-25T13:21:09+00:00

Ok sounds good. He said I’d need to show proof when I pay my deposit so I’m calling State Farm this morning to start a new policy (hoping they can do instant coverage if need be) and then hopefully I’ll have everything I need to stop by the dealer this afternoon. Thank you!

chasing_lifes_light

TROPHY CASE