Can You Open an HSA with Just Your Kid Covered? - Understanding HSA Eligibility

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a valuable tool for managing healthcare costs, but many people are unsure about the eligibility requirements. One common question that arises is whether you can open an HSA with just your child covered. Let's dive into the details to understand the rules surrounding HSA eligibility.

HSAs are designed to work in conjunction with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). To be eligible to open an HSA, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are covered by an HDHP on the first day of the month
• You have no other health coverage except what is permitted under the IRS rules
• You are not enrolled in Medicare
• You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return

Now, back to the original question - can you open an HSA with just your child covered? The answer is, it depends. In most cases, you can only open an HSA if you are covered by an HDHP yourself. However, there are a few exceptions when you can open an HSA with just your child covered:

• If your child is covered by an HDHP and meets all other HSA eligibility requirements, you can open an HSA for them
• If you have a family HDHP that covers both you and your child, you can open an HSA for both of you

It's important to note that the contribution limits for HSAs are different depending on whether you have self-only coverage or family coverage. For 2021, the contribution limit for self-only coverage is $3,600 and for family coverage is $7,200.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer various benefits for those managing their medical expenses, and understanding HSA eligibility is crucial. While many wonder if one can open an HSA with only their child covered, it's vital to grasp the necessary conditions.