HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can I Use My 2018 HSA for 2017 Expenses?

Published August 28, 2022

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

Get the app
Short answer: You can use your 2018 HSA funds for qualified medical expenses dating back to the year your HSA was opened, keeping receipts and documentation for reimbursement.

Using 2018 HSA for 2017 expenses

Many people wonder if they can use their 2018 HSA (Health Savings Account) funds for expenses incurred in 2017. The good news is that HSAs are quite flexible when it comes to using the funds, but there are certain rules and guidelines to keep in mind.

HSAs are designed to help individuals save for current and future medical expenses. They offer tax advantages and can be a great way to cover healthcare costs.

Have you ever pondered whether you can tap into your 2018 HSA (Health Savings Account) to cover any medical costs from 2017? You’re in good company! The flexibility of HSAs makes them a popular choice, allowing you to manage your healthcare spending effectively.

HSAs are specifically created to help individuals save for both current and upcoming medical expenses, all while enjoying tax benefits. But let’s break it down further when it comes to spending your HSA on past expenses.

Rules for prior-year qualified expenses

When it comes to using your HSA for expenses from a previous year, here are some key points to consider:

  • HSAs allow you to use funds for qualified medical expenses incurred after the HSA was established.
  • You can use your 2018 HSA funds for qualified medical expenses dating back to the year your HSA was opened.
  • Keep all receipts and documentation for any expenses you plan to reimburse with your HSA funds.
  • One major advantage of HSAs is that you can use the funds for qualified medical expenses that occurred after your HSA was officially set up.
  • Specifically, you can indeed use funds from your 2018 HSA for qualified expenses dating back to the inception year of your HSA, giving you a wider net to cast when covering costs.
  • Always remember to keep track of your receipts and any relevant documentation for expenses you want to reimburse — this will save you a lot of headaches later!

Rollover and getting professional guidance

Remember that HSA funds roll over year after year, so you can continue to use them for future medical expenses.

If you have any specific questions about using your HSA funds for past expenses, it's always a good idea to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional.

Additionally, keep in mind that HSA funds don’t just disappear at the end of the year; they roll over from year to year, empowering you to continue using them for various future medical expenses.

If you find yourself feeling uncertain about using your HSA for expenses from prior years, don’t hesitate to reach out to a financial advisor or tax professional who can provide tailored advice for your situation.

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