Who Pays First: The HRA or the HSA? - Understanding Health Savings Accounts

When it comes to health reimbursement arrangements (HRA) and health savings accounts (HSA), it's common for individuals to wonder which account pays first for medical expenses. The answer to this question depends on several factors and understanding the differences between HRA and HSA can help clarify any confusion.

Here's a breakdown of who pays first between the HRA and the HSA:

• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): HRA is an employer-funded health benefit account that reimburses employees for qualified medical expenses. In most cases, the HRA pays first before the HSA.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): HSA is a tax-advantaged account that individuals can contribute to for future medical expenses. If you have both an HRA and an HSA, the HSA typically pays after the HRA.

It's important to note that the coordination of benefits rules may vary depending on your specific insurance plan and employer's policies. Always consult with your HR department or insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.

When navigating through the maze of healthcare financing, the question of who pays first—your Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) or your Health Savings Account (HSA)—often comes to the forefront. Understanding how these accounts work together can save you both time and money. Generally, HRAs are employer-funded and designed to reimburse employees for out-of-pocket medical expenses. Therefore, they often take precedence and will pay first toward eligible costs before you dip into your HSA savings.