A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a special savings account you can use to pay for qualified medical expenses, like doctor visits, prescriptions, and certain procedures. It’s designed to help people with High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) save money on healthcare costs.
How an HSA works
You contribute money to your HSA before taxes are taken out of your paycheck.
The funds in your HSA can be used tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
Unused funds roll over from year to year, so you never lose money you don’t spend.
You own the account, even if you change jobs or insurance plans.
Who can open an HSA
You can open an HSA if you:
Are enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
Have no other health coverage (such as Medicare or another plan that pays before your deductible)
Are not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
What qualifies as a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
An HDHP is a health plan that has higher deductibles and lower monthly premiums compared to traditional plans.
For 2025, the IRS defines an HDHP as any plan with at least:
$1,650 deductible for individual coverage
$3,300 deductible for family coverage
These plans also have a maximum limit on out-of-pocket costs each year.
When you’re shopping for plans on HealthSherpa, plans that are HSA-eligible will display a “HSA eligible” badge or note in the plan details section.
Why it matters
HSAs can help you lower your taxable income and give you flexibility to manage medical expenses both now and in the future.
Need help?
If you’re not sure whether your plan qualifies for an HSA, contact our Consumer Advocate team at 855-772-2663, Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–4 p.m. PT, or visit www.healthsherpa.com to review your plan details