HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Can You Remove Money from HSA? Understanding HSA Withdrawals

Published January 1, 2023

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

Get the app
Short answer: You can withdraw from your HSA, but withdrawals for non-qualified expenses before age 65 are subject to income tax plus a 20% penalty, while after 65 you can withdraw without penalty but income tax may apply if used for non-qualified expenses.

Rules for using HSA funds

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a great way to save money for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. One common question that people have about HSAs is whether they can withdraw money from it. The answer is yes, you can withdraw money from your HSA, but there are certain rules and regulations you need to follow to avoid penalties.

When it comes to HSA withdrawals, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

Recordkeeping and health insurance limits

  • You can use the funds in your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses for yourself, your spouse, or any dependents.
  • Qualified medical expenses include a wide range of healthcare services, treatments, and products as defined by the IRS.
  • If you withdraw money from your HSA for non-qualified expenses before you turn 65, you will be subject to income tax on the amount withdrawn along with a 20% penalty.
  • After you turn 65, you can withdraw money from your HSA for any reason without penalty, but you will still need to pay income tax on the funds if they are used for non-qualified expenses.

Withdrawal overview and penalty avoidance

It's important to keep accurate records of your HSA withdrawals and expenses to ensure you are using the funds appropriately and in compliance with IRS regulations. Also, remember that you cannot use your HSA to pay for health insurance premiums unless you meet specific criteria.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer a fantastic way to build savings for medical expenses while enjoying significant tax benefits. One frequently asked question is whether it's possible to withdraw money from your HSA, and the good news is that yes, you can! However, there are specific guidelines you should be aware of to avoid unnecessary penalties.

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