In my experience the most comprehensive plans available to us (the pilots) are the "core" plans. They're only available to us, union-vetted and required. The biggest differences between Core HDHP and Core PPO are deductibles, max out of pocket, and HSA eligibility. You should be able to see a detailed list of coverage for both on YBR. Specifically if you click on the "compare" tool you can see coverage levels for things like speech therapy, etc.. You can also call our benefits hotline with specific plan related questions. Last, a PDR to our retirement & insurance is also helpful. Shoot me a PM if you need help finding any of those resources.

The "Traditional Medical PPO" also has very comprehsive coverage, but due to the premium cost it doesn't make much sense for my family.

Welcome to UA!

The Core HDHPj permium shouldn't be high, it should be low. I pay $129.08 for myself and my kids per paycheck.

It may look high but that's because you are also putting money into your HSA account. I have an additional $302.08 per paycheck put into my HSA but that money is mine, not an insurance premium. The company also puts $1,500 into my HSA each January 1st.

I generally do not reach my deductable each year so never get into the 5% co-pay portion of the insurance. Still, the HSA balance keeps going up, even after paying all of our medical expenses each year.

The monthly premium for "you and family" on Core HDHP is $583 for me. It is my understanding that the premium is independent of HSA contributions, but correct me if I'm wrong?

The Core PPO "You and family" premium is only $38 more per month. Not a big difference, but vastly lower deductible and max OOP limit; however, no HSA eligibility. I think over time the growth and triple tax benefit of an HSA will be the most beneficial in our situtation, but the HDHP premium cost does seem high to me for such an account. I'm sure it's because the union made sure it's a solid plan with a large network though.

If doing this, does it make sense to have a healthcare FSA as well?

You can't contribute to an HSA and traditional FSA in the same year.

Also FSA accounts are use it or lose it. HSA are superior in every respect.

You can but it has to be used for Dental or Vision only. Its turns into a limited FSA.

Great point and thanks for the clarification. I of course was referring to a traditional FSA. I assumed this is what he meant when asking about a "healthcare FSA," but good info. You're referring to an LPFSA (limited purpose). You can also have a dependet care FSA with an HSA.

I will be starting towards the end of April. Does anyone know if UA still contributes the full $1500 to your HSA if you start later in the year, or if it's prorated, or not contributed at all?