HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can I Get HSA Money Back? Understanding How you Can Withdraw Funds from Your HSA Account

Published May 24, 2022

Check eligibility on the gobrowse 7,000+ HSA-eligible products in the free app.

Get the app
Short answer: Yes, you can withdraw HSA funds, using them tax-free for qualified medical expenses, while non-qualified withdrawals before 65 face income tax plus a 20% penalty.

HSA withdrawals: can you get money back

Many people often wonder if they can get their HSA money back, especially when they are not sure about how the funds can be used. The good news is that you can withdraw funds from your HSA account, but there are certain rules and guidelines to be followed to ensure that the withdrawals are done correctly.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when considering withdrawing money from your HSA:

Rules for qualified, non-qualified, and reimbursements

  • Qualified medical expenses: You can use your HSA funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses such as doctor visits, prescription medications, and certain medical supplies.
  • Non-qualified expenses: If you withdraw funds for non-qualified expenses before the age of 65, you will be subject to income tax and a 20% penalty. However, after the age of 65, you can withdraw funds for non-qualified expenses penalty-free, but you will still have to pay income tax.
  • Reimbursement: You can reimburse yourself for qualified medical expenses using your HSA funds at any time, as long as the expenses were incurred after you opened the HSA account.

It's important to keep accurate records of your medical expenses and HSA withdrawals to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. By understanding the guidelines for HSA withdrawals, you can effectively manage your healthcare expenses while maximizing the benefits of your HSA account.

Many folks grapple with the question: can I get my HSA money back? It’s an important consideration when planning for health expenses. You truly can withdraw funds from your HSA account, but make sure to follow the specific rules and guidelines that are in place.

Essential withdrawal planning and IRS recordkeeping

Here are some essential points to bear in mind when planning your withdrawals:

  • Qualified medical expenses: Your HSA funds can be used tax-free for various qualified medical expenses including doctor visits, prescription medications, and specific medical supplies required for your health care.
  • Non-qualified expenses: Be cautious! If you take out funds for non-qualified expenses before you turn 65, you’ll face both income tax and a hefty 20% penalty. Luckily, this changes post-65; you can withdraw funds for non-qualified expenses without penalties but will still incur income tax.
  • Reimbursement: Did you pay for a qualified medical expense? You can reimburse yourself using HSA funds anytime, provided those expenses happened after you opened your account.

Keeping detailed records of your medical expenses and HSA withdrawals is vital for meeting IRS regulations. By mastering the rules around HSA withdrawals, you can effectively manage your health care spending while reaping the full benefits of your HSA.

Free App

Browse 7,000+ HSA-Eligible Products

Search by symptom, get price alerts, and build your HSA shopping list — all in the free app.

← Back to all articles