HSA money: who can spend it?

[red92s]

I've got an HSA checking account from an old employer with ~$1,500 in it. I left that job about 2 years ago, and haven't really used the account since (kinda forgot about it, actually). I have since gotten married, and neither my wife or I are covered by a HDHP. My understanding is that I can still spend the money, but I can no longer contribute because I am not on a HDHP.

So, can my wife use the account to pay for her "qualified expenses" if the account is in my name, and was originally under my HDHP umbrella, and we file taxes jointly? Does an HSA account "care" whose qualified expenses are being paid?

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From: What is a Health Savings Account (HSA)? - Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois

Q.* Only one spouse owns an HSA and a qualified HSA medical plan. Can the money in the HSA be used for either spouse (even the spouse who is not covered by the HSA medical plan) as long as the money is used for approved medical expenses?

A.* At least one family member must own an approved HSA medical insurance plan in order to own a Health Savings Account. But, once a health savings account has been established, funds from the account can be used for eligible expenses for any family member.


Also see: Frequently Asked Questions | HSA Resources

[red92s]

Thanks. Perfectly addresses our situation. I read the FAQ for the account but it didn't have anything nearly that helpful.