Can You Pay Premiums with HSA IRS?

If you are wondering whether you can use your HSA (Health Savings Account) to pay for insurance premiums, the answer is not a straightforward yes or no.

While generally, HSA funds should be used for qualified medical expenses, there are some instances where you can use them to pay for premiums.

Here's a breakdown of the scenarios where you may be able to pay premiums with HSA IRS:

  • COBRA Premiums: If you are receiving COBRA continuation coverage after a job loss, you can use HSA funds to pay for the premiums.
  • Long-Term Care Premiums: In certain cases, you can use HSA funds to pay for long-term care insurance premiums.
  • Health Coverage While Receiving Unemployment Compensation: If you are receiving federal or state unemployment compensation, you may be allowed to pay for health insurance premiums using HSA funds.

It's important to note that using HSA funds for premiums in other situations may not be allowed and could incur penalties.

Consult with your tax advisor or insurance provider to understand the specific rules and regulations regarding using HSA funds for premiums.


If you're considering whether your HSA (Health Savings Account) can be used for insurance premiums, it's essential to know that the answer varies based on specific circumstances.

Generally, HSA funds are primarily meant for qualified medical expenses. However, there are instances where you can tap into your HSA for premium payments.

Take a look at these situations where using HSA funds for premiums is permitted:

  • COBRA Premiums: If you've opted for COBRA coverage after losing your job, rest assured that HSA funds can cover these premiums.
  • Long-Term Care Premiums: In certain scenarios, HSA money can be allocated towards long-term care insurance premium payments.
  • Health Coverage During Unemployment: If you're currently receiving federal or state unemployment compensation, you might be eligible to use HSA funds for your health insurance premiums.

Keep in mind, however, that using HSA dollars for premiums outside these specific circumstances could lead to penalties.

It's always wise to consult with a tax advisor or an insurance expert to make sure you're well-informed about the regulations regarding the use of HSA funds for premiums.

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