HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can I Pull Cash from My HSA? - Understanding HSA Withdrawals

Published July 5, 2022

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

Get the app
Short answer: You can withdraw cash from your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses or to reimburse out-of-pocket qualified expenses; non-medical withdrawals incur a 20% penalty plus income taxes.

What HSA cash withdrawals are allowed

Have you ever wondered if you can pull cash from your HSA (Health Savings Account)?

First and foremost, it's essential to understand that an HSA is a tax-advantaged account designed to help individuals save for qualified medical expenses. However, there are circumstances under which you can withdraw cash from your HSA:

  • Qualified Medical Expenses: You can use your HSA funds to pay for eligible medical expenses for yourself, your spouse, or your dependents.
  • Reimburse Yourself: If you paid for a qualified medical expense out of pocket, you can reimburse yourself from your HSA.
  • Non-Medical Expenses Penalty: While you can technically withdraw cash for non-medical expenses, you will incur a 20% penalty on the amount withdrawn, in addition to owing income taxes on the withdrawal.

It's important to note that HSA funds are meant to be used for medical expenses, and if you withdraw cash for non-qualified expenses, you may face financial consequences. Be sure to consult with a tax advisor or financial professional before making any withdrawals to ensure you understand the implications.

When HSA withdrawals for expenses apply

Wondering if you can pull cash from your HSA (Health Savings Account)? It's a common question among account holders!

To start, your HSA is primarily a tax-advantaged account tailored to assist individuals in saving for eligible medical expenses. However, there are specific circumstances under which cash withdrawals are permitted:

  • Qualified Medical Expenses: You can utilize your HSA to cover eligible medical costs for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents.
  • Reimbursement: If you have out-of-pocket medical expenses, it’s possible to reimburse yourself using your HSA funds.
  • Withdrawals for Non-Medical Expenses: While it’s technically allowed to withdraw cash for non-qualified expenses, be cautious! Withdrawals will incur a hefty 20% penalty, along with regular income taxes.

Keep in mind, HSA funds should primarily be reserved for medical expenses. If you find yourself considering pulling cash for non-qualified items, remember the potential financial impact. It’s advisable to consult with a tax advisor or financial expert before proceeding with any withdrawals so that you fully grasp the consequences.

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