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How Do HSA Accounts Work?

Published July 10, 2023

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Short answer: To open an HSA, you must be covered by a high-deductible health plan (HDHP).

How HSAs work: contributions, withdrawals

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a valuable tool for managing healthcare costs. An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows individuals to set aside money for medical expenses. Here's how HSA accounts work:

  • Eligibility: To open an HSA, you must be covered by a high-deductible health plan (HDHP).
  • Contribution: You can contribute money to your HSA tax-free up to the annual limit set by the IRS.
  • Withdrawals: You can use the funds in your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses, such as doctor visits, prescription medications, and certain medical supplies.
  • Tax Benefits: Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and withdrawals used for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.
  • Roll Over: Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), the funds in an HSA roll over from year to year, so you never lose your contributions.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) empower individuals to take control of their healthcare finances by offering a smart way to save for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. These accounts are designed for those enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), which paves the way for understanding how HSAs work.

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