What Happens If You Don't Use Your HSA at 65?

As you approach the age of 65, having a Health Savings Account (HSA) can become even more valuable. But what happens if you reach this age and haven't used all the funds in your HSA?

Firstly, it's important to note that there is no 'use it or lose it' rule with HSAs, unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Your HSA funds roll over from year to year, allowing you to accumulate savings for future medical expenses.

Here's what happens if you don't use your HSA at 65:

• Retirement Healthcare Expenses: You can continue using your HSA funds tax-free for eligible medical expenses in retirement, including premiums for Medicare, long-term care insurance, and other qualified medical costs.
• Penalty-Free Withdrawals: At age 65 or older, you can make penalty-free withdrawals from your HSA for any reason. While withdrawals for non-qualified expenses are subject to income tax, using the funds for medical expenses remains tax-free.
• Social Security and Medicare: Your HSA balance does not impact your Social Security or Medicare benefits. The funds in your HSA are yours to keep and use for healthcare expenses as needed.

It's crucial to remember that HSAs can serve as a valuable savings tool in retirement, providing a tax-advantaged way to cover healthcare costs as you age.

As you turn 65, you may wonder about the future of your Health Savings Account (HSA) and the money you've accrued. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), there’s no urgency to spend your HSA; the funds remain available to you as they roll over year after year.