HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can You Pay HSA Short Term Health Insurance Premiums?

Published December 11, 2022

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

Get the app
Short answer: No—the IRS does not allow HSA funds to pay for short term health insurance premiums.

HSAs, tax benefits, and common premium question

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) have become a popular option for individuals looking to save on healthcare expenses while also receiving tax benefits.

One common question that arises is whether you can use your HSA to pay for short term health insurance premiums. Short term health insurance is an option for individuals who need temporary coverage for gaps in their insurance or during transitional periods.

While Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a fantastic way to manage healthcare costs and gain tax advantages, it’s important to know how they can be utilized effectively. Many people wonder whether they can leverage HSA funds to pay for short-term health insurance premiums, especially during transitional periods when they might not have constant coverage.

IRS rule: HSA funds can’t pay premiums

Unfortunately, the IRS does not allow HSA funds to be used to pay for short term health insurance premiums. However, there are still several ways you can make the most of your HSA when it comes to healthcare expenses:

While you may not be able to directly use your HSA for short term health insurance premiums, there are many other benefits and ways to maximize your HSA for healthcare expenses.

Ways to use HSA for eligible costs

  • Use your HSA funds for qualified medical expenses such as doctor's visits, prescriptions, and other eligible healthcare services.
  • Save on taxes by contributing to your HSA pre-tax and using the funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
  • Consider long term health insurance options that are HSA-eligible, allowing you to use your HSA funds towards premiums.

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