Can Parents HSA Pay for 26 Child Cobra Premiums?

Parents who have a Health Savings Account (HSA) may wonder if they can use it to pay for their 26-year-old child's COBRA premiums. This can be a complex issue, so let's break it down.

HSAs are a great way to save for medical expenses, offering tax advantages and flexibility. However, there are specific rules about what expenses can be paid for with HSA funds.

COBRA allows young adults up to age 26 to stay on their parent's health insurance after aging out of coverage. While COBRA premiums are typically eligible expenses for HSAs, there are a few things to consider:

  • COBRA premiums can be paid with HSA funds if the child is still considered a dependent for tax purposes.
  • If the child is not a dependent, HSA funds cannot be used for their COBRA premiums.
  • It's important to check with a tax professional or HSA administrator to ensure compliance with IRS rules.

Ultimately, parents may be able to use their HSA to pay for their 26-year-old child's COBRA premiums, as long as the child meets the necessary criteria. Understanding the rules and seeking guidance where needed is key to utilizing HSA funds effectively.


Many parents might be asking themselves if their Health Savings Account (HSA) can cover the COBRA premiums for their adult child who just turned 26. The good news is that there are ways to utilize HSA funds effectively in this situation!

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