If you have a very specific type of high-deductible health insurance policy and no health plan at work, you can contribute up to $2,850 per year ($5,650 for family coverage) to a Health Savings Account at a bank or other financial institution. Individuals 55 and older can make an additional catch-up contribution.

You get a federal income tax deduction for your contribution. The money grows tax free and remains tax free when you withdraw it if you spend it on qualified medical expenses (excluding insurance premiums).

Many insurance companies offer qualified high-deductible policies, also called major medical or catastrophic coverage. Some insurance companies link their policy to a savings account, but you don’t have to use that one. You can deposit your contributions into an HSA account at any bank that offers one. Shop wisely, because terms and fees vary widely.

First, ask your bank if they offer HSA accounts. Some do, but don’t advertise it.

You can also find lists of banks that offer HSAs at http://hsainsider.com/ and at http://www.hsafinder.com/finder/AccountCustodians.aspx.

For more information on HSAs, go to http://www.ustreas.gov/offices/public-affairs/hsa/.