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Can You Borrow Against an HSA? Exploring Your Options

Published November 4, 2022

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Short answer: Yes—withdraw funds from your HSA at any time, for any reason, but non-qualified medical use may trigger income taxes and, if under 65, a 20% penalty.

Can You Withdraw or Borrow From HSA

Many people wonder if they can borrow against their Health Savings Account (HSA) in times of financial need. The short answer is yes, you can withdraw funds from your HSA at any time, for any reason. However, there are certain conditions and consequences to be aware of before deciding to borrow against your HSA.

When faced with financial challenges, it's common to wonder if you can tap into your Health Savings Account (HSA). The good news is that you're allowed to withdraw funds at any time! However, be mindful of how you use those funds, as borrowing against your HSA has tax implications and potential penalties.

Tax Penalties and Repaying HSA Withdrawals

When you borrow against your HSA:

  • You will need to pay income taxes on the withdrawn amount if the funds are used for non-qualified medical expenses.
  • If you are under 65 years old, you will incur a 20% penalty on the withdrawn amount for non-qualified medical expenses.
  • Repaying the withdrawn amount is not required, but it's recommended to ensure you have funds available for future medical expenses.

When Borrowing Against HSA Is Worth It

It's essential to consider all options before deciding to borrow against your HSA. If you have no other resources available and urgently need the funds for qualified medical expenses, borrowing against your HSA can be a viable solution.

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