Is an HSA Plan Considered a CDHP? - Understanding the Basics of Health Savings Accounts

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are becoming increasingly popular among individuals and families looking for ways to save on healthcare expenses while also gaining tax benefits. But are HSA plans considered a Consumer Directed Health Plan (CDHP)?

Yes, an HSA plan is considered a CDHP because it requires individuals to be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) to be eligible for an HSA account. Here's a breakdown of how HSAs work and why they are classified as CDHPs:

  • HSAs allow individuals to save money tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses
  • Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free
  • To be eligible for an HSA, individuals must be enrolled in an HDHP and not be covered by any other health insurance plan that is not an HDHP
  • HDHPs have higher deductibles than traditional health insurance plans, but they also typically have lower monthly premiums
  • By pairing an HSA with an HDHP, individuals can save on premiums while still having funds set aside for medical expenses

In summary, HSAs are considered CDHPs because they are tied to high-deductible health plans and offer a tax-advantaged way for individuals to save for healthcare costs.


Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are gaining traction among savvy individuals and families who are seeking effective ways to manage their healthcare costs while reaping tax advantages. But what does it mean for an HSA plan to be associated with a Consumer Directed Health Plan (CDHP)?

Indeed, HSA plans fall under the umbrella of CDHPs since being eligible for an HSA requires enrollment in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). Let’s explore the ins and outs of HSAs and their CDHP classification:

  • HSAs empower you to save money tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
  • Your contributions to an HSA are not only tax-deductible but also grow without being taxed; furthermore, when you withdraw funds for qualified medical expenses, those withdrawals are also tax-free.
  • To kickstart your HSA journey, you must be enrolled in an HDHP and cannot have any other health insurance that isn't an HDHP.
  • Though HDHPs come with higher deductibles compared to conventional health insurance plans, they generally feature lower monthly premiums, making them an appealing option.
  • By opting for an HSA in tandem with an HDHP, you can save money on premiums while ensuring you have funds available for healthcare needs.

In conclusion, HSAs are categorized as CDHPs due to their strong linkage to high-deductible health plans and the tax-advantaged opportunity they provide for individuals to save towards healthcare expenses.

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