How Much Can I Contribute to an HSA if Started Mid-Year?

Contribution limits for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be confusing, especially if you start contributing mid-year. The annual HSA contribution limit for individuals and families in 2021 is $3,600 and $7,200, respectively. However, if you start contributing to your HSA mid-year, your contribution limit is prorated based on the number of months you are eligible.

When you start contributing to an HSA after January 1st, the IRS allows you to calculate your contribution limit by the last month rule. This rule allows you to contribute the full annual limit for the year if you remain eligible until December 31st of the following year. However, if you are ineligible at any point during this extension period, you may be subject to penalties.

If you start contributing mid-year and want to know your prorated contribution limit, you can use a simple formula. Divide the full annual contribution limit by 12 and multiply it by the number of months you are eligible for an HSA. For example, if you start contributing in July (month 7) as an individual, your prorated contribution limit would be ($3,600 / 12) * 6 = $1,800.

Understanding the contribution limits for your Health Savings Account (HSA), especially when starting mid-year, is essential. For the year 2021, individual contribution limits stand at $3,600, while families can contribute up to $7,200. If you begin your contributions mid-year, it's crucial to know that your limits will be prorated according to your months of eligibility.