What Happens if I Use My HSA Card for Dinner?

Using your HSA card for dinner may seem like a convenient way to cover meal expenses, but it's important to understand the implications of doing so.

When you use your HSA card for eligible medical expenses, you are using tax-free dollars to pay for those costs. However, if you use your HSA card for non-qualified expenses, such as dinner, it can have financial consequences.

Here's what happens if you use your HSA card for dinner:

• The amount you spend on dinner will be considered a non-qualified expense.
• You may be subject to income tax on the amount spent on dinner.
• If you are under 65 years old, you may also face a 20% penalty for using HSA funds for non-qualified expenses.
• It's important to keep receipts and documentation for all HSA expenses to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines.

Think twice before using your HSA card for non-qualified expenses like dinner, to avoid potential tax liabilities and penalties.

While it might be tempting to use your HSA card for dining out, it’s crucial to remember that these funds are intended for medical expenses. Using them for meals may lead to unpleasant financial surprises later.