Can I Contribute to an HSA the Year I Turn 65?

It's common for individuals to wonder about their Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions as they approach retirement age. When it comes to turning 65, here's what you need to know about contributing to an HSA:

Yes, you can contribute to an HSA the year you turn 65. However, there are certain things to consider:

• Eligibility: To contribute to an HSA in the year you turn 65, you must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and not be enrolled in Medicare.
• Contribution Limits: The annual HSA contribution limit remains the same even in the year you turn 65. For 2021, the limit is $3,600 for individuals and $7,200 for families. If you're 55 or older, you can make an additional catch-up contribution of $1,000.
• Pro-Rated Contribution: If you are not enrolled in an HDHP for the full year, your contribution limit may be pro-rated based on the months you were eligible.
• Medicare Enrollment: Once you enroll in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. It's recommended to stop contributing six months before you plan to enroll in Medicare to avoid any tax penalties.

In summary, while you can contribute to an HSA the year you turn 65, there are specific criteria to meet to continue making contributions. Understanding these guidelines can help you maximize the benefits of your HSA as you approach retirement.

As you approach retirement, you might be questioning how your finances will change, particularly regarding your Health Savings Account (HSA). It’s important to know that you can continue to contribute to your HSA in the year you turn 65, but there are a few essential factors to consider.