How Far Back for Expenses on HSA?

When it comes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), one common question that many individuals have is how far back they can go to claim reimbursements for medical expenses. Understanding the timelines and rules surrounding HSA expenses can help you make the most of this valuable healthcare tool.

With an HSA, you can withdraw funds tax-free at any time to pay for qualified medical expenses. However, there are specific guidelines regarding how far back you can claim these expenses:

  • Generally, you can reimburse yourself from your HSA for qualified medical expenses incurred after you establish the account.
  • There is no time limit on when you must reimburse yourself for these expenses, allowing you to accumulate receipts and claim reimbursements years later.
  • Since HSAs are meant to be long-term savings vehicles for healthcare costs, you can hold onto receipts and claim reimbursements even in retirement.
  • It is essential to keep accurate records of your medical expenses and receipts to substantiate withdrawals from your HSA.

Overall, the flexibility of HSAs allows you to use funds for medical expenses incurred in the past, as long as they meet the criteria for qualified expenses. By understanding the rules and benefits of HSAs, you can effectively manage your healthcare expenses and save on taxes.


When it comes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), understanding how far back you can claim expenses is essential for maximizing your savings. You can reimburse yourself for qualified medical expenses incurred after your HSA was established, and thankfully, there’s no rush to file these claims. If you've been diligent about keeping your receipts, you might find yourself using funds for expenses you incurred long ago!

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