What Happens to HSA Funds That Are Not Used?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a great way to save for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. One common question that arises is: what happens to HSA funds that are not used?

If you have funds left in your HSA at the end of the year, the good news is that the money rolls over to the next year. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), there is no 'use it or lose it' rule with HSAs. Your HSA funds stay in your account and continue to grow tax-free.

Here are some options for what you can do with your unused HSA funds:

• Leave the funds in your HSA to continue growing for future medical expenses
• Use the funds for qualified medical expenses in the future
• Withdraw the funds for non-medical expenses (subject to taxes and penalties if under age 65)

It's important to note that HSAs are not just for short-term use; you can save and invest HSA funds for the long term, including using them in retirement for healthcare expenses.

HSAs, or Health Savings Accounts, offer a fantastic way to put money aside for future medical expenses while benefiting from tax advantages. One frequent question is: what becomes of HSA funds that go unused during the year?

Fortunately, if you have a balance in your HSA at year-end, it automatically rolls over to the following year! Unlike FSAs, HSAs don’t impose a 'use it or lose it' rule; your funds remain safe in your account and continue to accumulate interest tax-free.

You have several options for what to do with these unused funds:

• Allow the funds to remain in your HSA where they can grow for anticipated medical expenses down the road.
• Utilize those funds for qualifying medical expenses whenever necessary in the future.
• Take out the funds for non-medical expenditures, keeping in mind that taxes and possible penalties apply if you are under 65.

Remember, HSAs are not merely for immediate needs; they can also be an essential component of your long-term financial and health planning, especially as you embark on retirement.