What is a good amount for an HSA?

Asked by: Prof. Carol Carroll  |  Last update: September 3, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (30 votes)

The short answer: As much as you're able to (within IRS contribution limits), if that's financially viable. If you're covered by an HSA-eligible health plan (or high-deductible health plan), the IRS allows you to put as much as $4,300 per year (in 2025) into your health savings account (HSA).

What is a good amount to have in HSA?

Basically, your contributions should be (the maximum you can afford to save for retirement)+(whatever you're budgeting this year for medical expenses) up to $3600 in one year, then avoid withdrawing anything even for medical if you can afford to.

What is the average HSA balance?

While it's wise to take advantage of your HSA, you'll also need a retirement plan beyond it. If you're unsure of where to start, try working with a financial advisor. What Is the Average HSA Balance By Age? The average HSA balance for a family is about $7,500 and for individuals it is about $4,300.

Is it smart to max out your HSA?

If you have no higher priority use for that money (paying off high interest debt, building emergency fund, etc.) and your budget can support having that money ``locked up'' in the HSA, then maxing out your HSA is a viable strategy.

Is out of pocket too high for HSA?

To qualify for an HSA, the out-of-pocket max for your health insurance must be $8,050 or less for individuals, and $16,100 or less for families. It's not uncommon to find a high-deductible plan with a larger out-of-pocket max, but that will make you ineligible for an HSA.

The Real TRUTH About An HSA - Health Savings Account Insane Benefits

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How much should I put in my HSA per paycheck?

You can start small, perhaps setting aside $25 to $50 per paycheck. Consider also trying to cut back on non-essential spending, such as foregoing one of your app subscriptions, reducing meals out or making your morning cup at home versus going to a coffee shop.

What is the downside of an HSA?

Drawbacks of HSAs include tax penalties for nonmedical expenses before age 65, and contributions made to the HSA within six months of applying for Social Security benefits may be subject to penalties. HSAs have fewer limitations and more tax advantages than flexible spending accounts (FSAs).

What is a good HSA contribution?

Contribute the maximum amount: Since the money in your HSA does not expire, it's a good idea to contribute as much as you can each year. The HSA contribution limit for 2024 is $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for family coverage.

Can HSA be used for dental?

Yes, you can use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) for dental expenses.

What happens if I put too much money in my HSA?

Contributing more to your health savings account (HSA) than the IRS limit for the tax year creates excess contributions. All excess contributions are subject to income tax and a 6% excise tax each year until corrected.

Should you use HSA or save it?

All this said, like many accounts, the trick for HSA success is achieving balance -- save when you can, spend when you need. Remember, these tax-free funds are there to promote long-term health. As an example, other than for health insurance premiums, you can use your HSA for almost anything medical.

What is the minimum balance in HSA?

Investments cover future healthcare costs and build your retirement savings. You may begin investing once you have a minimum of $1,000 in your HSA cash account. HSA funds above that amount can be transferred to your investment account.

How many people invest in their HSA?

While HSAs are touted by providers and financial experts for their use as investment accounts, only 13 percent of owners used them in that capacity in 2022, EBRI found.

What is the average value of an HSA?

Are you taking the right approach to your HSA? As of the end of 2023, the average HSA balance was $4,380. That's up from $3,930 at the end of 2022. If you have an HSA, it's a great thing to contribute more each year than you did the last year.

Is there a max HSA balance?

Key Takeaways. An HSA lets you set aside pre-tax income to cover health care costs if you have a qualifying high-deductible health plan. For the 2024 tax year, the maximum contribution amounts are $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for family coverage.

Is HSA better than 401k?

Comparing HSAs and 401(k)s

The triple-tax-free aspect of an HSA makes it better for tax management than a 401(k). However, since HSA withdrawals can only be used for healthcare costs, the 401(k) is a more flexible retirement savings tool. The fact that an HSA has no RMD gives it more flexibility than a 401(k).

Can I use HSA for gym membership?

Gym memberships. While some companies and private insurers may offer discounts on gym memberships, you generally can't use your FSA or HSA account to pay for gym or health club memberships. An exception to that rule would be if your doctor deems fitness medically necessary for your recovery or treatment.

Are tampons HSA eligible?

With the passage of the CARES Act in March 2020, tampons and other menstrual care products are now fully FSA-/HSA-eligible. According to the text of the bill, menstrual care products include, “tampon, pad, liner, cup, sponge, or similar product used by individuals with respect to menstruation…”

Can I use HSA for glasses?

Yes! You can definitely use funds from your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to purchase prescription glasses. (FSAs and HSAs can be used for many other vision- and eye health-related expenses, too, but we'll discuss that more in a bit.)

How much is normal to put in HSA?

The short answer: As much as you're able to (within IRS contribution limits), if that's financially viable. If you're covered by an HSA-eligible health plan (or high-deductible health plan), the IRS allows you to put as much as $4,150 per year (in 2024) into your health savings account (HSA).

Should I max out my HSA every year?

If you're able to make the maximum contribution each year, then it's suggested that you do so. Some years you may need to use more of your HSA contributions than other years. Just remember, there's no yearly minimum you have to spend from your HSA and your entire HSA automatically rolls over each year.

What disqualifies you from contributing to an HSA?

If you can receive benefits before that deductible is met, you aren't an eligible individual. Other employee health plans. An employee covered by an HDHP and a health FSA or an HRA that pays or reimburses qualified medical expenses can't generally make contributions to an HSA. FSAs and HRAs are discussed later.

Should I put a lot of money in my HSA?

Because HSAs come with several tax benefits that could save you money, you may want to consider contributing as much as you can to your HSA.

Is it better to have an HSA or copay?

If you don't have an HDHP, have a family, and require frequent diagnostic medical care, a copay plan may be a better option. Neither an HSA or copay plan is better than the other; you just need to decide which plan meets all of your needs and will benefit you the most.

Do I ever lose my HSA money?

Myth #2: If I don't spend all my funds this year, I lose it. Reality: HSA funds never expire. When it comes to the HSA, there's no use-it-or-lose-it rule. Unlike Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds, you keep your HSA dollars forever, even if you change employers, health plans, or retire.