HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can You Have an HSA If Your Employer Does Not Provide One?

Published December 5, 2022

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

Get the app
Short answer: Yes—you can open and contribute to an HSA on your own if you meet the eligibility criteria (HDHP coverage, not a dependent, and not enrolled in Medicare).

Opening an HSA without employer support

If your employer does not offer a Health Savings Account (HSA) as part of your benefits package, you can still open and contribute to an HSA on your own.

Even if your employer does not provide a Health Savings Account (HSA), you can take the initiative and open one yourself. This is great for those looking to manage their healthcare expenses more effectively.

What an HSA is and its benefits

An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows you to save money for qualified medical expenses. Even without employer participation, you can open and contribute to an HSA as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

By opening an HSA independently, you can enjoy the tax benefits and flexibility that come with it. You can contribute pre-tax money, let it grow tax-free, and withdraw it tax-free for qualified medical expenses.

Having an HSA gives you control over your healthcare expenses and allows you to save for future medical needs.

Eligibility criteria for self-opening

To be eligible to open an HSA on your own:

  • You must be covered by a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).
  • You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return.
  • You cannot be enrolled in Medicare.

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