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Can You Keep Your HSA if You Leave Your Employer? - The Ultimate Guide

Published December 13, 2022

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Short answer: Yes—HSAs are portable, so you can keep your HSA after leaving your employer.

Keeping your HSA when leaving employer

When it comes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), one common question that many individuals have is: can you keep your HSA if you leave your employer? The answer to this question is a resounding yes, and there are several important factors to consider when it comes to maintaining your HSA after leaving your job.

When you leave your employer, one of the most reassuring aspects of a Health Savings Account (HSA) is that you can keep your money! This is because HSAs are portable , setting them apart from other savings accounts like FSAs. So, even if you switch jobs, your HSA goes with you!

Key rules for maintaining contributions

Here are the key points to keep in mind:

  • If you have an HSA through your employer, the account is yours to keep. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), HSAs are portable , meaning you can take it with you when you change jobs or leave the workforce.
  • You can keep contributing to your HSA even after you leave your employer, as long as you are enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).
  • If you no longer have an HDHP, you can still use the funds in your HSA for qualified medical expenses tax-free. However, you cannot make any more contributions until you are enrolled in an HDHP again.
  • It's important to review the fees and investment options of your HSA provider once you leave your employer. You may have the option to transfer your HSA to a different provider that better suits your needs.
  • When you reach Medicare eligibility age (65), you can use the funds in your HSA for non-medical expenses without penalty – but you will pay income tax on the withdrawals.

Why keeping the HSA helps financially

Overall, keeping your HSA after leaving your employer is a smart financial move, as it allows you to continue saving for future medical expenses tax-free. Be sure to stay informed about the rules and regulations surrounding HSAs to make the most of this valuable healthcare savings tool.

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