2019 HSA Qualifications - Understanding Health Savings Account Eligibility

In 2019, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) continue to be a valuable tool for individuals looking to save for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. To qualify for an HSA, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the qualifications for HSA in 2019:

1. Enrollment in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP): Individuals must be enrolled in an HDHP to be eligible for an HSA. For 2019, the minimum deductible for an HDHP is $1,350 for self-only coverage and $2,700 for family coverage.

2. No Other Health Coverage: Individuals cannot have other health coverage that is not an HDHP. This includes being covered by a spouse's non-HDHP insurance or Medicare.

3. Not Enrolled in Medicaid: Individuals cannot be enrolled in Medicaid if they want to qualify for an HSA.

4. Not a Dependent: Individuals who can be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return are not eligible for an HSA.

5. Contribution Limits: In 2019, the maximum contribution limit for an HSA is $3,500 for self-only coverage and $7,000 for family coverage.

Meeting these qualifications allows individuals to open and contribute to an HSA, providing a tax-advantaged way to save for current and future medical expenses.

In 2019, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) remain a crucial financial instrument for individuals aiming to save on medical costs while taking advantage of significant tax benefits. To be considered eligible for an HSA, one must meet specific criteria. Here’s a detailed look at the qualifications you should be aware of:

1. Enrollment in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP): You need to be enrolled in an HDHP, which, for 2019, requires a minimum deductible of $1,350 for individual coverage and $2,700 for family coverage. This means choosing a plan that aligns with these deductible amounts is essential to gain the benefits of an HSA.

2. No Other Health Coverage: It’s important to remember that if you have any other type of health insurance that is not an HDHP, you will not qualify for an HSA. This includes acting as a dependent on a spouse's traditional insurance policy or being enrolled in Medicare.

3. Not Enrolled in Medicaid: Individuals enrolled in Medicaid are ineligible for HSA contributions, so if you are receiving Medicaid benefits, you need to reconsider your eligibility.

4. Not a Dependent: If you can be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return, you cannot establish or contribute to your own HSA.

5. Contribution Limits: For 2019, individuals can contribute up to $3,500 for self-only coverage, while families can save up to $7,000. Maximizing these contributions can help you build a robust safety net for future healthcare needs.

Your understanding of these qualifications can empower you to utilize an HSA effectively, offering a tax-advantaged avenue to save for both current and future medical expenses.