How to Use HSA: Do I Make Distributions to Reimburse Then Put Money Back into HSA?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a valuable tool for managing healthcare expenses, allowing you to save pre-tax money to pay for medical costs. Understanding how to use an HSA can help you make the most of this benefit. One common question people have is whether they can make distributions to reimburse themselves and then put the money back into the HSA.

When it comes to using an HSA for reimbursements and replenishing funds, here's how you can go about it:

  1. Make a qualified medical expense payment using funds from your HSA.
  2. Reimburse yourself for the expense by taking a distribution from your HSA.
  3. Keep records of the medical expenses and the reimbursements for tax purposes.
  4. Consider replenishing the HSA by making contributions to cover the amount you withdrew. This can be done up to the annual contribution limit set by the IRS.
  5. Consult with a tax advisor if you have questions about the tax implications of your HSA transactions.

By following these steps, you can effectively use your HSA to cover medical expenses and manage your healthcare costs responsibly.


Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are not only a smart way to save on taxes but also provide a flexible method to manage medical expenses. By contributing to your HSA regularly, you're building a safety net for unexpected healthcare costs. A question that often comes up is: if I withdraw money from my HSA for a qualified medical expense, can I reimburse myself later and replenish the account with that same amount?

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