Does Funding an HSA in December 2018 Count Towards 2019 with a New HSA Starting in 2019?

Understanding how a Health Savings Account (HSA) works can be confusing, especially when it comes to funding timelines and rollovers. If you funded an HSA in December 2018 and the account is starting in 2019, you might wonder if that contribution counts towards the new year. The answer lies in the IRS guidelines surrounding HSAs.

When it comes to HSA contributions and rollovers, here's what you need to know:

• If you funded your HSA in December 2018 but your account officially started in 2019, the contribution typically counts towards the previous tax year, which is 2018. This means that the amount you contributed in December would fall under the 2018 contribution limit.
• Contributions made in the current tax year count towards the current year, regardless of when the HSA was opened.
• It's essential to keep track of your contributions and ensure that you stay within the yearly limits set by the IRS to avoid any penalties or tax implications.

Remember that HSAs offer tax advantages, including tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth of funds, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses. By understanding the rules around contributions, you can make the most of your HSA benefits while maximizing savings for healthcare costs.

When considering funding a Health Savings Account (HSA) in December 2018 for an account that begins in 2019, it's important to understand how your contributions are allocated according to IRS guidelines.