Can You Move Money from an HRA to an HSA?

Many individuals are curious about the possibility of transferring funds from a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) to a Health Savings Account (HSA). Both accounts offer tax advantages and can be used to cover medical expenses, but they have different rules and purposes.

Unfortunately, you cannot directly move money from an HRA to an HSA. The IRS has strict regulations regarding the transfer of funds between these accounts. However, there are alternative options to consider:

• Reimbursement - You can pay for qualified medical expenses out of pocket and then request reimbursement from your HRA. Once you have been reimbursed, you are allowed to contribute that amount to your HSA, up to the maximum annual contribution limit.
• Employer Contributions - Some employers offer the option to contribute funds from your HRA to your HSA. Check with your HR department to see if this is a possibility for you.
• Unused Funds - If you have leftover funds in your HRA at the end of the year, you may be able to roll them over into the following year or use them for future medical expenses, reducing the need to transfer money to your HSA.

It's essential to understand the specific rules of your HRA and HSA to make informed decisions about managing your healthcare expenses efficiently. While direct transfers between the accounts are not permitted, there are strategies you can utilize to leverage the benefits of both accounts effectively.

While transferring funds from a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) to a Health Savings Account (HSA) isn't allowed by IRS guidelines, understanding how to navigate your options can still provide you with significant benefits. For instance, taking advantage of HRA reimbursements for qualified medical expenses can free up money that you can then contribute to your HSA, maximizing your tax benefits.