Can My Family Member on My HDHP Open an HSA?

Many people wonder if their family members covered under their High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) can also open a Health Savings Account (HSA). The answer to this question is a bit nuanced, but it is possible for certain family members to open an HSA.

Let's break it down:

  • As the primary account holder of the HDHP, you are the one eligible to open an HSA.
  • Your spouse can also open an HSA in their name if they are covered under the HDHP.
  • However, other family members, such as children or parents, cannot open an HSA in their name under your HDHP coverage.
  • If your family member is not covered under an HDHP but has their own qualifying HDHP, they can open their own separate HSA.

It's important to note that the primary account holder is the one who gets the tax benefits associated with an HSA, so it's usually best for them to be the account holder if possible.

Ultimately, the ability for family members to open an HSA depends on the specific circumstances of your HDHP coverage. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare or financial professional to determine the best course of action for your family's healthcare and financial needs.


Many individuals find themselves contemplating whether family members included in their High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) can set up a Health Savings Account (HSA). The straightforward answer is yes, under certain conditions, family members can open their own HSAs.

Here’s how it works:

  • As the primary account holder of the HDHP, you have the primary eligibility to establish an HSA.
  • If your spouse is under the HDHP, they are qualified to create an HSA in their name.
  • Regrettably, other family members, like children or parents, are not allowed to open their own HSAs based on your HDHP coverage.
  • If other family members have a separate qualifying HDHP, they can certainly open an HSA independently.

It's critical to understand that the primary account holder enjoys the tax benefits linked to an HSA, hence it's often favorable for them to remain the account holder.

The eligibility of family members to open their own HSAs is contingent on the particulars of your HDHP coverage. Always consider consulting with a healthcare or financial advisor to decide the most advantageous strategy for your family's healthcare and financial circumstances.

Download our FREE mobile app to get more of the following

Over 7,000+ HSA eligible items for sale.
Check on product HSA (Health Savings Account) eligibility
Get price update notifications
And more!

Did you find this page useful?

Subscribe to our Newsletter