Can I Make a Payment with My 2018 HSA Money for a Bill from 2017?

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to pay a bill from 2017 using your 2018 HSA funds, you might wonder if that is possible. Here’s what you need to know about using HSA money for past expenses:

1. HSA Basics:

• An HSA, or Health Savings Account, is a tax-advantaged account that allows you to save money for qualified medical expenses.
• Contributions to your HSA are tax-deductible, and funds in the account can be used to pay for eligible healthcare costs.

2. Payment for Past Expenses:

• As per IRS guidelines, you can only use HSA funds for medical expenses that occur after the HSA was established.
• If the bill from 2017 pertains to a medical expense incurred after you opened your HSA, you can use your 2018 HSA funds to pay for it.

3. Documentation:

• It’s crucial to keep detailed records and documentation of the medical expense and the payment made from your HSA.
• If audited by the IRS, you will need to provide proof that the expense was incurred after the HSA was set up.

In conclusion, while you cannot use HSA funds for expenses that predate the establishment of your account, you can utilize your HSA money for eligible medical bills from past years if they relate to qualified medical expenses incurred after your HSA was opened.

If you're wondering whether you can access your 2018 HSA funds to settle a medical bill from 2017, you're not alone. Many people find themselves facing similar questions about the flexibility of their Health Savings Accounts.

1. Understanding HSA Accounts:

• An HSA is designed specifically for individuals with high-deductible health plans and helps them save money for qualifying medical expenditures tax-free.
• The money you contribute to your HSA can grow tax-free until you need it, making it a powerful option for managing healthcare costs.

2. Guidelines on Payments:

• According to IRS regulations, HSA funds can only be utilized for medical expenses incurred after the account was established.
• If your HSA was opened before you incurred an expense that resulted in your 2017 bill, you may use your 2018 contributions to cover it.

3. Importance of Documentation:

• Maintaining comprehensive documentation of your medical expenses is necessary for HSA transactions.
• You’ll want to keep receipts and any relevant paperwork to ensure you can substantiate your claims during potential audits.

In summary, while HSA funds can’t be used for pre-account expenses, you can indeed use your funds for qualified medical bills from past years if they relate to services rendered after your HSA was opened.