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Health insurance deductions on your paycheck

Most employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision premiums are paid through a Section 125 cafeteria plan, which reduces federal income tax and FICA. State treatment varies (Pennsylvania does not allow this for state purposes).

What appears on your stub

  • Medical premium: Pre-tax (Section 125). Reduces federal, FICA, most state.
  • Dental: Usually pre-tax under Section 125.
  • Vision: Usually pre-tax under Section 125.
  • HSA contribution: Pre-tax (when via payroll). Reduces federal, FICA, most state.
  • FSA — Health: Pre-tax. Reduces federal, FICA. Use-it-or-lose-it.
  • FSA — Dependent Care: Pre-tax. Reduces federal, FICA.
  • Supplemental insurance (e.g., voluntary life): Often post-tax.

2025 limits

  • HSA self-only: $4,300
  • HSA family: $8,550
  • HSA catch-up (55+): $1,000
  • Health FSA: $3,300 (verify employer cap)
  • Dependent care FSA: $5,000 ($2,500 if MFS)

Official sources

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