HSA contribution limits 2027: $4,500 self-only, $9,000 family

Quick answer: For 2027, you can put up to $4,500 in a health savings account (HSA) with self-only high-deductible coverage, or $9,000 with family coverage, according to IRS Revenue Procedure 2026-24 (published 29 May 2026). If you are 55 or older, you can add a $1,000 catch-up. Your plan must have a deductible of at least $1,750 (self-only) or $3,500 (family).

Key takeaways

• Limits rise from $4,400 and $8,750 in 2026.
• The limit includes employer contributions — count them before you set your payroll amount.
• You have until the tax filing deadline in April 2028 to make 2027 contributions.
• HSA money is never lost at year end; it rolls over and can be invested.

#2027 HSA and HDHP limits

If both spouses are 55 or older, each can make a $1,000 catch-up, but each must have their own HSA — catch-ups can't be combined into one account.

#Why an HSA is worth maxing out

An HSA is the only US account with a triple tax advantage:

1. Contributions are tax-deductible (or pre-tax and free of FICA tax through payroll).
2. Growth is tax-free while it stays in the account.
3. Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free at any age.

After 65, you can withdraw for any purpose without the 20% penalty; non-medical withdrawals are then taxed like a traditional IRA. That makes an HSA a strong addition to a 401(k) and IRA. See how invested balances grow with our compound interest calculator.

Tip: Many people pay current medical bills out of pocket, keep the receipts, invest the HSA, and reimburse themselves years later. There is no time limit on reimbursing a qualified expense incurred after the HSA was opened.

#Who can contribute

You must be covered by an HSA-eligible high-deductible health plan (HDHP) on the first day of the month, have no other disqualifying health coverage, not be enrolled in Medicare, and not be claimed as someone else's dependent. Recent law changes widened eligibility: from 2026, ACA bronze and catastrophic marketplace plans count as HSA-compatible, and many direct primary care arrangements (up to $150 a month self-only, $300 family) no longer disqualify you.

Warning: Once you enroll in any part of Medicare, you can no longer contribute. Medicare Part A is often backdated up to six months when you sign up after 65, so stop HSA contributions six months before you apply to avoid an excess contribution.

#If you are eligible for only part of the year

Your limit is normally prorated by the number of months you had HDHP coverage. Under the last-month rule, if you are eligible on 1 December you can contribute the full annual amount — but you must stay eligible through the end of the following year (a 13-month testing period) or pay tax and a 10% penalty on the extra.

#Frequently asked questions

What is the HSA limit for 2027?

$4,500 for self-only HDHP coverage and $9,000 for family coverage, plus $1,000 if you are 55 or older.

Do employer HSA contributions count toward the limit?

Yes. Employer and employee contributions together can't exceed the annual limit.

What happens if I contribute too much?

Excess contributions are hit with a 6% excise tax each year they stay in the account. Withdraw the excess and its earnings before your tax filing deadline to avoid it.

Can I use an HSA for my spouse or kids?

Yes. Qualified medical expenses for your spouse and tax dependents can be paid tax-free from your HSA, even if they are not on your health plan.

#Sources

• IRS Revenue Procedure 2026-24 (2027 HSA limits)
• IRS Publication 969 — Health Savings Accounts
• HealthCare.gov — HSA-eligible plans