5g99 globe Unlikely battleground California plays key role -- again -- in setting US House's political balanceLIVING GRACE: Jesus grew physically, mentally, socially and spiritually

Carson Beck makes major announcement about his future

he spotlight is on as the prepare for their biggest game of the season in the . Under the leadership of head coach , the Buffaloes have made a . From a dismal 1-11 record in 2022 to a 9-3 record this season, Colorado finished ranked 23rd in the nation and has a chance to secure its . Leading the way is Sanders, the team's standout quarterback and in the upcoming NFL Draft. With by his side, Sanders has cemented his place as one of college football's brightest stars, making today's game a pivotal moment in his career. A Clear Cleats Hint Toward the Giants? has not only caught the attention of NFL scouts, but has also fueled speculation about his future team. The , sitting at a , are in desperate need of a quarterback to rebuild their franchise. The , and their struggles this season have made them the likely holders of the first overall pick. Sanders recently caused a stir among fans with a cryptic comment: " Today, Sanders posted a picture of , giving a strong indication of his interest in joining the team. While from Miami is also in the conversation, to be the first overall pick. In his two seasons at Colorado, , cementing himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. In 2023, he completed 69.3% of his passes for 3,230 yards, , and only 3 interceptions. He followed that up with an even , improving his completion percentage to 74.2% while throwing for 3,926 yards, , and 8 interceptions. Despite taking 90 sacks over two seasons, Sanders maintained his composure and showed his ability to perform under pressure. Regardless of the outcome of the , his draft stock is unlikely to be affected, as his consistent performances have already proven his readiness for the next level. Can Sanders Save the Giants? The have endured a decade of mediocrity, with only and just The franchise, once a powerhouse, has struggled to find a consistent quarterback to lead them back to prominence since the departure of in 2018. could be the game-changer the Giants desperately need. With a proven track record, a Hall of Fame father, and the ability to handle pressure, with untapped potential into a contender. The question remains: Giants fans are hoping he's the answer they've been waiting for, besides the roster isn't as bad as their record is, but as of right now they're just tanking to get the first overall pick, which is why I don't see them winning any of their last two games against either the Colts or Eagles.US prosecutors dismiss key criminal cases against Trump

Season of Trust: Hometrust partners with MHHS to host Chamber BreakfastNEW YORK (AP) — Geronimo Rubio De La Rosa scored 27 points as Columbia beat Fairfield 85-72 on Saturday night. De La Rosa shot 8 of 15 from the field, including 5 for 11 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 6 from the line for the Lions (11-1). Avery Brown shot 5 of 8 from the field and 5 of 5 from the free-throw line to add 16 points. Kenny Noland went 5 of 12 from the field (3 for 7 from 3-point range) to finish with 15 points. The Stags (5-8, 1-1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) were led by Louis Bleechmore, who recorded 12 points. Fairfield also got 12 points and seven assists from Jamie Bergens. Deon Perry had 12 points and five assists. Columbia's next game is Monday against Rutgers on the road, and Fairfield visits Merrimack on Friday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

Pope Francis kicks off a yearlong Jubilee that will test his stamina and Rome's patience VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis has opened the great Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica. The ceremony kicks off the 2025 Holy Year. It's a celebration of the Catholic Church that is expected to draw some 32 million pilgrims to Rome. And it will test the pope’s stamina and the ability of the Eternal City to welcome them. This begins the Christmas Eve Mass. The ceremony inaugurates the once-every-25-year tradition of a Jubilee. Francis has dedicated the 2025 Jubilee to the theme of hope. Bethlehem marks a second subdued Christmas Eve during the war in Gaza BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Bethlehem is marking another somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of war in Gaza. Manger Square lacked its usual festive lights and crowds of tourists on Tuesday. Instead, the area outside the Nativity Church was quiet. The church was built atop the spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. The war, the violence in the occupied West Bank it has spurred and the lack of festivities has deeply hurt Bethlehem's economy. The town relies heavily on Christmas tourism. The economy in the West Bank was already reeling because of restrictions placed on laborers preventing them from entering Israel during the war. Heavy travel day starts with brief grounding of all American Airlines flights WASHINGTON (AP) — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne Tuesday about one hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop, which prevented planes from taking off. American said in an email that the problem was caused by an issue with a vendor technology that maintains its flight operating system. Aviation analytics company Cirium said flights were delayed across American’s major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time. Nineteen flights were cancelled. Haiti gangs fire on journalists covering a planned hospital reopening, leaving casualties PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Suspected gang members have opened fire on journalists in Haiti’s capital as they were covering the attempted reopening of the country’s largest hospital, wounding or killing an unknown number of people. The country's interim president, Leslie Voltaire, said in an address to the nation that journalists and police were among the victims of the vicious Christmas Eve attack. He did not specify how many casualties there were, or give a breakdown for the dead or wounded. Radio Télé Métronome said earlier on Tuesday that seven journalists and two police officers were wounded in the shooting. Street gangs have taken over an estimated 85% of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Middle East latest: Israeli raid and airstrikes in West Bank kill at least 8 Palestinians The Palestinian Health Ministry says at least eight people were killed by Israeli military operations in the northern West Bank. The ministry said three of the dead were killed by Israeli airstrikes. The attacks took place around the city of Tulkarem and nearby refugee camps. The Israeli military said it opened fire after militants attacked soldiers, and it was aware of some uninvolved civilians who were harmed in the raid. Elsewhere in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian city of Bethlehem was marking a somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of the war in Gaza. Most festivities were cancelled and crowds of tourists were absent. Caitlin Clark honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year following her impact on women's sports Caitlin Clark has been named the AP Female Athlete of the Year after raising the profile of women’s basketball to unprecedented levels in both college and the WNBA. She led Iowa to the national championship game, was the top pick in the WNBA draft and captured rookie of the year honors in the league. Fans packed sold-out arenas and millions of television viewers followed her journey on and off the court. Clark's exploits also put other women's sports leagues in the spotlight. A group of 74 sports journalists from AP and its members voted on the award. Other athletes who received votes included Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and boxer Imane Khelif. Clark’s only the fourth women’s basketball player to win the award since it was first given in 1931. NFL players who use platform to share their faith say it's their duty to spread their love of Jesus ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — Jake Bates was standing on the turf in his hometown of Houston when asked to reflect on an unlikely journey from learning how to sell bricks to making game-winning kicks for the Detroit Lions. Bates used his platform as an NFL player to spread his love of Jesus. A month later, Bates told The Associated Press it is a duty to share his faith. The NFL is filled with players and coaches who feel the same way, such as Houston's C.J. Stroud, Atlanta's Kirk Cousins, and Lamar Jackson and John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens. Major storm pounds California's central coast, blamed for man's death and partially collapsing pier SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP) — A major storm has pounded California’s central coast bringing flooding and high surf that was blamed for fatally trapping a man beneath debris on a beach and later partially collapsing a pier, tossing three people into the Pacific Ocean. The storm was expected to bring hurricane-force winds and waves up to 60 feet Monday as it gained strength from California to the Pacific Northwest. Some California cities have ordered beachfront homes and hotels to evacuate early Monday afternoon. Forecasters have warned that storm swells would continue to increase throughout the day. Medellin Cartel victims demand truth and justice as cartel boss Fabio Ochoa walks free in Colombia BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — The return of the notorious drug trafficker Fabio Ochoa to Colombia, following his deportation from the United States, has reopened old wounds among the victims of the Medellin cartel, with some expressing their dismay at the decision of Colombian authorities to let the former mafia boss walk free.Some of the cartel victims said on Tuesday that they are hoping the former drug lord will at least cooperate with ongoing efforts by human rights groups to investigate one of the most violent periods of Colombia’s history, and demanded that Colombian prosecutors also take Ochoa in for questioning.

Shoppers ring up £3.4bn Christmas debt time-bomb

The assassin who cooly gunned down the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in front of witnesses on Wednesday morning made a head-scratching stop before he carried out his hit. New photos released by police show that the suspect dipped into a nearby Starbucks just before he descended upon the Midtown Hilton around 6:45 a.m. to fatally shoot the 50-year-old Thompson as he walked there to give a speech at an investors meeting. The new photos—pulled from security footage—revealed only the alleged gunman’s eyes and hands, as he was wearing the same black facemask and black hoodie he wore during the shooting. Police did not say if the mystery man ordered anything at the coffee joint or if—by some extreme luck—he happened to give his first name for his hypothetical order. Police said the gunman “targeted” Thompson and fled the scene on an e-bike after shooting the health insurance CEO in his calf and back. He remained at large as of Wednesday afternoon. British actor Paapa Essiedu is reportedly in talks to take on the role of Professor Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series. Multiple sources told Variety that the I May Destroy You actor is a contender for Snape’s role, though no deals have yet been finalized. The Hollywood Reporter also cited sources familiar with the matter who disclosed that Essiedu has been offered the role—but that it is unclear if negotiations have begun. Representatives for HBO told Variety and THR that while they “appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation,” as the show goes through pre-production they will “only confirm details as we finalize deals.” In the original Harry Potter films, Alan Rickman assumed the role of the snarky potions teacher. While Essiedu boasts an impressive filmography, some people haven’t taken kindly to the news of his potential casting. A number of social media users bristled at the news due to the fact that Essiedu is Black, with a number spewing hate on X, formerly Twitter. One user called the decision “woke magic dust” and said producers might as well make Snape a “black lesbian woman.” Others have jumped to Essiedu’s defense, however, with one user tweeting, “Here come the racists. This is a fictional character, it’ll be ok.” The nights are longer, the weather is colder, and there’s no better time to get some sleep. Get ready for the winter with Bearaby’s Black Friday Sale , featuring up to 30% off all of the brand’s made-to-make-you-cozy bedtime essentials. Fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful sleep with Bearaby’s soft and breathable knitted weighted blanket , made of 100% organic cotton. Made with a custom, plant-based material that the brand calls MelofoamTM, this soothing body pillow melts away tension and relieves pressure by providing support to your joints, neck, and back. This gently weighted sleep mask leverages a tension-melting clay material to cradle your eyes and block out light, giving you a first-class ticket to dreamland. Don’t sleep on this heated neck wrap , which cradles your neck, back, and shoulders to create a warm, calming comfort that will put you at ease. Alternatively, chill it in the freezer to help soothe sore muscles. If you buy something from this post, we may earn a small commission. Donald Trump ’s coming back home...to NBC. The president-elect will sit down with Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker for his first network interview since he won the presidency again last month. The conversation will tape on Friday before it airs on Sunday, and the network plans to release the full interview and transcript after it concludes. The sit-down marks a turn for Trump, who effectively shunned traditional media outlets in the run-up to the election in favor of either gabs with Fox News or lengthy debates with Joe Rogan. The interview comes more than a year after Welker launched her show with a Trump interview in September 2023, which critics— including at the Daily Beast —derided as unchallenging and ineffective despite Welker’s skill as an interviewer. Trump has previously derided Welker as “terrible,” “horrible,” and a “radical left Democrat.” A 60-year-old California art teacher died after being bit by a bat in her classroom, according to officials. Leah Seneng died on Nov. 22, a month after removing a bat from her classroom at Bryant Middle School in Dos Palos. Before class started, the teacher discovered the bat and “scooped it up to take it outside,” unaware that it had rabies, friend and family spokesperson Laura Splotch told NBC News. Seneng thought she had just been scratched, and didn’t seek immediate treatment, Splotch said. After not having any symptoms for weeks, Seneng went on Nov. 18 to the hospital, where it was determined that the classroom encounter likely gave her rabies. Her condition quickly worsened and she died four days later. NBC News reported that it was the first rabies death in Fresnno County since 1992. According to the CDC , less than 10 people die each year in the United States. The teacher is survived by her daughter and husband. “It’s very shocking, still, to think that she’s no longer around because of something so random,” Splotch said to NBC News. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. Whether you’re looking for sleep support, stress relief, a little physical relief, or just a little something to take the edge off, Kind Oasis’ premium, hemp-derived cannabis edibles are the perfect treat. to relax and unwind without the smoke and carcinogens you inhale with a joint, whether it be a Delta, CBD, or THC-forward product. 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Kind Oasis offers a slew of different treats, from THC-infused seltzers (and flavored syrups that can be added to green baked goods and spiked coffee drinks!) to full-spectrum CBD gummies for those who prefer a mild effect (or live in regions in which THC is not legal). Whatever your cannabis needs are, Kind Oasis has you covered with a product that will give you the right feeling, no matter what you prefer: an active candy or sweet or a flavorful and relaxing beverage. Prince Harry has said he and his wife Meghan Markle have no plans to return to the U.K. and intend to continue residing with their family in America. The Duke of Sussex made the comments on stage while being interviewed at The New York Times’ DealBook Conference Wednesday. Prince Harry said , “I very much enjoy living here and bringing up my kids here.” Harry, who is in a protracted legal tussle with the U.K. government about his security, said that safety concerns meant there were things he can do with his children in America that he “undoubtedly wouldn’t be able to do in the U.K.” Asked why he and Meghan left the U.K., Harry said: “We were running from something. Quite a few things, actually.” Harry added that his focus was on “being the best husband and the best dad that I can be.” Harry also said he was opposed to an outright ban on children using social media for practical reasons, but urged authorities to make tech companies more accountable. Donald Trump’s secretary of defense pick, Pete Hegseth, said he would quit drinking if confirmed to the position, CNN correspondent Manu Raju reported Wednesday. “He views the job as so important that he volunteered that,” Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger told Raju. “I didn’t ask him.” The New Yorker published a bombshell report Sunday that alleged Hegseth had a history of drinking heavily at work while the president of a veteran’s advocacy group. Then several former Fox News colleagues shared with NBC News that Hegseth’s drinking was concerning and affected his job as a morning host. Hegseth denied having a drinking problem in an interview with Megyn Kelly on Wednesday, though he did not address the allegations about his behavior at work. Hegseth’s candidacy has been marred by a number of scandals, including multiple sexual assault allegations, infidelities and a leaked letter written by his mother calling him an “abuser.” Pete Hegseth told incoming Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker that he wouldn’t drink if confirmed to the job. “He views the job as so important that he volunteered that,” Wicker told me. “I didn't ask him.” The Satanic Temple will begin offering a religious studies program at a public elementary school in Ohio after a parent’s request. Seeking an alternative to the school’s Christian release program, a concerned parent at Edgewood Elementary school in Marysville, Ohio requested for a different program to be implemented at the school for non-Christian students. The school’s initial release program, organized by LifeWise Academy, sees students being removed from classes for 55 minutes each week to study the Bible or visit local churches. With the Satanic Temple’s new program, the Hellion Academy of Independent Learning (Hail), students at Edgewood can instead partake in “self-directed learning” and “good works in the community” once every month, where they’ll also have “inspirational guest speakers” and “tons of fun,” per the organization’s Facebook page . The Satanic Temple identifies as a “non-theistic” church, meaning it doesn’t believe in deities like God or Satan, but rather claims it is instead on a mission to promote pluralism among different religious views. “We aren’t trying to shut the LifeWise Academy down,” June Everett, an ordained minister at the Temple, told WCMH . “But I do think a lot of school districts don’t realize when they open the door for one religion, they open it for all of them.” M issing woman Hannah Kobayashi ’s Venmo account has reportedly been flooded with donations after news broke that she recently crossed into Mexico. The Hawaii native was initially reported missing by family on Nov. 11 after failing to board a connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York three days prior. The LA Police Department swiftly commenced an investigation into Kobayashi’s disappearance to determine if there was any foul play. On Monday, however, surveillance footage from Customs and Border Protection showed Kobayashi crossing into Mexico alone with her luggage, seemingly unharmed, the day before. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell disclosed that Kobayashi had been “classified a voluntary missing person” in a press conference on Monday, adding that foul play is no longer suspected in her disappearance. Following the update, Venmo users have been sending money and recommendations to Kobayashi for her apparent trip to Mexico, according to The Daily Mail . “I hope you’re safe. You don’t owe an explanation. Here’s some taco money, girl. Have fun!,” one user wrote. Another said, “Way to make it to Mexico girlie! Have a chicharron on me!” Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. It’s not every day that you can score a deal on a high-quality printer at a lower cost. Investing in a quality printer for your home or office is a game-changer, and while it’s not the most fun purchase, it’ll pay for itself in a couple of months. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price for a solid printer, thanks to HP’s current sale . Right now, you can score the HP Envy Inspire 7955e , the brand’s premium at-home photo printer for $70 off. If you’re looking for a solid holiday gift that they’ll actually use, the deluxe multi-purpose printer is a great choice—especially for photographers and anyone who works from home. The all-in-one printer is also designed with HP’s Wolf Essential Security system to keep your information secure and keep hackers out. Plus, unlike other printers that require you to get your hands dirty to replenish the ink, this one offers a 15-second mess-free ink refill experience with bottles that can be plugged into the tank. Say goodbye to messes and hello to your new printer . Best of all? For a limited time, score three months of Instant Ink with HP+. Frasier star Kelsey Grammer is set to release a memoir in 2025 about his sister, Karen, and her murder in 1975. Karen, who was 18 at the time of her death, was kidnapped by multiple men from her job at Red Lobster. She was later stabbed to death after being raped. In a People exclusive , Grammer talked about his sister’s memory, and the healing journey he and his family have been on since the tragedy. “It is not a grief book. It is a life book, a celebration of Karen’s life,” Grammer, 69, told the outlet. “From a loving brother, I invite you to meet Karen. To know her and remember her with me.” Grammer has faced multiple other untimely deaths in his family. His father was killed by a trespasser on his property when the actor was just 13-years-old, which was five years before his sister’s death. Then in 1980, his two half brothers dying in a scuba diving incident. The memoir, entitled, “Karen: A Brother Remembers,” is expected to be released in May 2025. “Fifty years hence, I learned that love, that our love, is forever,” Grammer said. Prince William and Prince Harry are engaging in yet another very public display showing how toxic their relationship has become by refusing, once again, to appear together at an award ceremony honoring their mother’s legacy. While Harry will appear via pre-recorded video at the Diana Awards tomorrow, William will not attend and instead handed out letters to the winners on Wednesday. It’s arguably a slightly less absurd solution than that employed at another awards ceremony for the charity in March this year, which saw William speak live at the event with Harry’s speech delayed till after he had left. Adding to the sense of bitterness back then, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, announced the launch of her American Riviera Orchard brand on Instagram minutes before William took to the stage. Prince William’s new letter seemed to adopt some Sussex buzzwords, with the future king writing: “I am so proud of the impact every one of you has had on your communities and beyond. You are driven by kindness and compassion and through this you are all changing the world for the better.”

Nebraska's Dylan Raiola talks key late hit on day he sets school freshman season passing markAs reported, there was disorder in the town centre over the weekend, with police enforcing a dispersal zone to break up any further potential troublemakers. The Star was told of reports that youths were brawling on Saturday night, resulting in a large police presence swooping on the Corporation Street bus station. In a statement, Merseyside Police confirmed to the Star that an arrest was made on suspicion of a series of offences. The statement read: "We were called to St Helens Bus Station at around 8.15pm to reports of youths fighting. "Officers attended and a 18-year-old man from St Helens was arrested on suspicion of obstructing police; criminal damage to a vehicle; possession of Class B drugs and two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. "He has been conditionally bailed pending further enquiries." The dispersal zone was put in place in the area which is bounded by the A58 Linkway West, A58 Linkway East, Parr Street, Shaw Street, Hall Street, Standish Street, College Street, Duke Street, A570 Boundary Road and Kirkland Street. Dispersal zones are under Section 34/35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers the powers to direct people engaging in anti-social behaviour or are likely to become involved in such incidents and not return for up to 48 hours. Officers also have the power to seize items used for anti-social behaviour. Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Josh Griffiths said: “We have introduced this order in response to anti-social behaviour carried out by youths in St Helens town centre over the weekend. “We have increased patrols in the area to deal with any issues, and this dispersal zone gives officers extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes. “This order is to ensure residents and businesses are not subjected to any such behaviour, and I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action. “I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble. “If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”

Share Tweet Share Share Email Managing healthcare expenses can be overwhelming, especially as medical costs continue to rise. However, many individuals overlook an effective strategy to save money—pre-tax medical expense management apps. These tools offer a seamless way to track, manage, and optimize your healthcare spending while taking advantage of tax savings. By integrating technology with financial planning, these apps simplify the process, helping you make the most of your pre-tax dollars . Understanding Pre-Tax Medical Expenses Pre-tax medical expenses are costs that can be paid using funds that haven’t been subjected to income tax. By utilizing these funds, you reduce your taxable income, resulting in significant savings. Common examples include payments for prescriptions, doctor visits, medical devices, and even dependent care in certain cases. These expenses are often managed through specific accounts, such as Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). The Role of FSAs and HSAs FSAs and HSAs are specialized accounts designed to encourage individuals to save for medical expenses. While both accounts provide tax advantages, they differ in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, and rollover policies. FSAs are often offered by employers, and the funds typically need to be used within the calendar year. HSAs, on the other hand, are available to those with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and allow unused funds to roll over indefinitely. To maximize the benefits of these accounts, proper management is essential. That’s where pre-tax medical expense management apps come into play. These apps streamline the tracking process, ensuring you’re using your pre-tax dollars effectively. Benefits of Using Pre-Tax Medical Expense Management Apps Simplified Expense Tracking One of the primary challenges of managing pre-tax medical expenses is keeping track of receipts and eligible expenses. Pre-tax medical expense management apps automate this process. By linking your account, these apps can categorize your transactions and flag eligible expenses. This eliminates the need for manual tracking and reduces the risk of missing out on reimbursements . Maximized Tax Savings Using pre-tax funds for eligible expenses ensures you’re taking full advantage of the tax benefits. Many apps provide tools to calculate potential tax savings, helping you understand the financial impact of your spending habits. This feature not only saves you money but also encourages more strategic financial planning. Enhanced Budgeting Tools Effective budgeting is crucial for managing medical expenses. Pre-tax medical expense apps often include budgeting features that allow you to set spending limits and monitor your progress. By staying within your budget, you can avoid depleting your pre-tax funds prematurely, ensuring they last throughout the year. Easy Reimbursements Submitting reimbursement requests can be a time-consuming task. These apps simplify the process by allowing users to upload receipts and submit claims directly through the platform. Some even integrate with employers or account administrators, streamlining approvals and payouts. Increased Awareness of Eligible Expenses Many individuals are unaware of the wide range of expenses that qualify for pre-tax reimbursement. These apps often include educational resources and updated lists of eligible expenses. By staying informed, you can make smarter spending decisions and fully utilize your pre-tax funds. Features to Look for in a Pre-Tax Medical Expense Management App User-Friendly Interface An intuitive interface is essential for ease of use. The app should provide clear instructions and navigation to ensure users can access features without confusion. Look for apps with dashboards that offer an overview of your account balance, expenses, and pending claims. Integration Capabilities The ability to link your FSA or HSA account directly to the app is a crucial feature. This integration allows the app to automatically track your transactions and provide real-time updates on your account balance. Some apps also integrate with healthcare providers and pharmacies, making it easier to manage expenses. Security Features Since these apps handle sensitive financial and medical data, robust security measures are non-negotiable. Ensure the app uses encryption to protect your information and complies with data privacy regulations. Mobile Accessibility Having access to your account on the go is a must. Look for apps with mobile-friendly designs or dedicated smartphone applications. This feature allows you to manage your expenses anytime, anywhere. Customer Support Reliable customer support can make a significant difference, especially when dealing with complex financial accounts. Opt for apps that offer multiple support channels, including live chat, email, or phone assistance. Popular Pre-Tax Medical Expense Management Apps Several apps stand out for their features and reliability. Below are a few noteworthy options: WageWorks WageWorks is a popular choice for managing FSAs and HSAs. The app offers robust tracking tools, easy reimbursement submissions, and a user-friendly interface. It also provides educational resources to help users better understand their accounts. HealthEquity HealthEquity specializes in HSAs and offers comprehensive tools for managing medical expenses. The app integrates with several account providers and includes features like expense calculators and budgeting tools. Optum Financial Optum Financial’s app is designed for both FSAs and HSAs. It provides seamless integration with account administrators and offers an intuitive platform for tracking expenses, submitting claims, and accessing educational resources. Tips for Maximizing Your Savings Plan Your Contributions When setting up an FSA or HSA, carefully consider your anticipated medical expenses for the year. Overestimating contributions can result in unused funds, particularly with FSAs that have a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy. Apps with budgeting tools can help you forecast your expenses accurately. Stay Organized Keeping your receipts and medical records organized is essential for tracking and reimbursement. Many apps offer cloud storage for receipts, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. Regularly Review Your Account Make it a habit to review your account activity regularly. This helps you stay on top of your spending and identify any discrepancies early. Most apps provide monthly summaries, making it easy to monitor your progress. Take Advantage of Resources Many apps include educational content, such as articles or FAQs, to help you better understand your account. Use these resources to stay informed about eligible expenses, contribution limits, and tax regulations. The Future of Pre-Tax Medical Expense Management Apps As technology continues to evolve, these apps are likely to become even more sophisticated. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning could enhance expense categorization and provide personalized recommendations. Additionally, increased integration with healthcare providers and pharmacies could further streamline the process. By leveraging the benefits of pre-tax medical expense management apps, individuals can save money, reduce stress, and take greater control over their healthcare spending. Whether you’re managing an FSA, HSA, or both, these tools are a valuable addition to your financial toolkit . Start exploring your options today and unlock the full potential of your pre-tax dollars. Related Items: Expense Management Apps , Pre-Tax Medical , Saving Money on Healthcare Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsNone

Unlikely battleground California plays key role -- again -- in setting US House's political balance