Wellness Spending Accounts: How to Add Lifestyle Benefits Without CRARisk

🧘 What is a WSA?

A Wellness Spending Account (WSA) is a taxable benefit funded by the employer that covers a broad range of lifestyle and wellness expenses not eligible under a traditional HSA. Common examples include gym memberships, fitness equipment, nutritional counselling, and mental health apps.

✅ Why Use a WSA

A WSA allows employers to support employee well-being beyond medical care, without triggering CRA compliance issues. Because it is a taxable benefit, it can cover more discretionary services while remaining fully transparent.

📋 Setting Up a WSA

Employers determine the eligible categories, annual limits, and claim rules. PC Metro helps customize plans to align with workforce needs while maintaining administrative simplicity.

⚖️ HSA vs. WSA

HSAs provide tax-free reimbursements for medical expenses, while WSAs offer taxable support for personal and lifestyle choices. Used together, they offer a holistic benefit strategy.

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