Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged savings accounts designed to help Canadians manage their healthcare expenses. They allow individuals to save and invest money on a tax-free basis to pay for qualified medical expenses. HSAs were introduced in Canada in 2003 as part of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act. They have become an important component of many Canadian’s financial and benefits planning.

Introduction to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

HSAs allow individuals to contribute pre-tax dollars into a dedicated HSA account. The funds deposited can be used to pay for a wide range of qualified medical expenses such as:

• Doctor visits
• Prescription medications
• Dental procedures
• Vision care

The money in an HSA grows tax-free and can be withdrawn at any time to pay for eligible healthcare expenses. Any unused funds roll over year after year.

Key Benefits of HSAs

Several key benefits make HSAs a valuable savings vehicle for healthcare expenses:

Significant Tax Advantages

• Contributions made to an HSA are tax-deductible, reducing your taxable income. In 2022, you can contribute up to $6,000 annually if you have self-only coverage and up to $7,300 for family coverage.
• Any interest or investment gains earned within the HSA are tax-free.
• Withdrawals made for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free.

Flexibility in Managing Healthcare Expenses

HSAs allow you to pay for various medical expenses that fit your needs, including dental, vision, physio, prescription drugs, and more. You have great flexibility in using your HSA funds.

Accumulation and Portability of Funds

Unlike other healthcare accounts, HSA funds roll over year after year if unused. The account is completely portable, too – the funds are yours to keep even if you change jobs or retire. HSAs help you save for future healthcare expenses.

According to the Canada Revenue Agency, over 8 million Canadians contributed over $5.3 billion to an HSA in 2020.

HSA Eligibility Requirements

To open an HSA in Canada, you must meet specific requirements:

• You must have a high-deductible health insurance plan. In 2022, the minimum deductible is $1,500 for self-only and $3,000 for family coverage.
• You cannot be covered under any other non-HSA-compatible health insurance plan.
• You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
• You must be a Canadian resident and have a valid SIN.

HSAs are compatible with most provincial and territorial health insurance plans. However, you cannot contribute to an HSA if you benefit from Veteran Affairs Canada or through Indigenous Services Canada.

Here is a quick overview of the key eligibility factors:

HSA Eligibility Overview

Eligibility Factor	Requirement
Health Plan Deductible (2022)	>$1,500 individual/<br>>$3,000 family
Other Health Coverage	No other non-HSA plans
Tax Status	Cannot be claimed as dependent
Residency	Must be a Canadian resident

HSA Contribution Limits

The CRA sets annual contribution limits for HSAs. In 2022, the limits are:

• $6,000 for individual coverage
• $7,300 for family coverage

Individuals over 55 can make an extra $1,000 “catch-up” contribution. The total annual contribution can be made even if you only had an HSA for part of the year. Both employers and individuals can contribute to an HSA, but the combined total must be, at most, the annual limit.

Here is an overview of the key HSA contribution limits for 2022:

HSA Contribution Limits for 2022

Contribution Source	Individual Limit	Family Limit
Regular (Under 55)	$6,000	$7,300
Catch-Up (Over 55)	+$1,000	+$1,000
Total Limit	$7,000	$8,300

Qualified HSA Expenses

As the CRA defines, HSAs can be used to pay for various qualified medical expenses. This includes:

• Doctor visits
• Dental procedures
• Vision care
• Prescription drugs
• Medical devices
• Physiotherapy
• Acupuncture
• Medical supplies

A full list of eligible expenses is published by the CRA annually. It’s essential to keep receipts and track expenses for reporting purposes.

HSA Investment Options

Unlike other healthcare accounts, HSAs allow you to invest your funds for growth potential. Many HSA providers offer investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

By investing your HSA funds, you can work towards offsetting future healthcare costs in retirement. HSAs are the only savings vehicle allowing for tax-free contributions, investment growth, and withdrawals focused on healthcare expenses.

However, not all HSA providers offer investment options. Be sure to research providers thoroughly before opening an HSA.

Withdrawals and Distributions from HSAs

You can use your HSA funds anytime, tax-free, to pay for qualified medical expenses. Most people use their HSA debit card or request reimbursements. You can also pay healthcare providers directly from your HSA.

It’s essential to keep receipts and documentation for all withdrawals. If HSA funds are used for non-medical expenses before age 65, you will pay income tax plus a 20% penalty on the amount. After 65, withdrawals can be taken for any expenses without penalty but are subject to income tax.

HSAs vs. FSAs

While HSAs and Flexible Savings Accounts (FSAs) share some similarities, there are key differences:

HSA vs. FSA

Feature	HSA	FSA
Ownership	Individual	Employer
Portability	Portable	Not portable
Rollover	Rolls over	Use it or lose it
Investment options	Many offer investments	No Investments
Tax Benefits	Triple tax savings	Pre-tax contributions only

Ultimately, an HSA provides more long-term savings benefits compared to an FSA. But both can help offset healthcare costs.

Opening an HSA

Opening an HSA is relatively simple. First, determine eligibility based on your health plan coverage. Then, research HSA providers like banks, credit unions, insurance companies, or robo-advisors. Compare investment options, fees, and account management tools.

Opening an account involves:

• Completing an application
• Providing eligibility documentation
• Designating beneficiaries
• Making contributions

Many employers also offer HSA options as part of workplace benefits. Check with your HR department to see if an employer HSA program is available.

Managing and Monitoring an HSA

To optimize your HSA, manage and monitor the account actively. Review statements regularly and ensure contributions don’t exceed limits. Track expenses and withdrawals closely.

Investment options should be reviewed annually and adjusted accordingly. As you age, consider adjusting your investment strategy to lower-risk investments to protect your HSA balance.

Common HSA Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common HSA mistakes to avoid:

• Not contributing enough to maximize tax savings and long-term growth potential.
• Using funds for non-qualified expenses and getting hit with taxes and penalties.
• Letting funds sit in cash and missing out on investment growth.
• Keeping good records and receipts leads to tax headaches.
• Continuing to contribute after enrolling in Medicare or another disqualifying health plan.

HSA Contribution Limits and Changes

HSA contribution limits typically change each year based on IRS guidance. For 2022, the limits increased by $50 for self-only coverage and $100 for families. It’s essential to keep up to date on limits each year.

HSA Rollovers and Transfers

You can rollover or transfer HSA funds from one provider to another without taxes or penalties. This allows you to consolidate accounts or switch HSA providers seamlessly. Proper procedures must be followed to facilitate transfers and avoid any issues.

Summary

In summary, Health Savings Accounts offer Canadians a powerful option to save for healthcare expenses in a tax-advantaged way. The triple tax benefit, flexibility, and long-term savings potential make them an ideal choice alongside a high-deductible health plan. By understanding HSA rules and maximizing contributions, Canadians can take control of their healthcare costs and build retirement savings.

Frequently Asked Questions About HSAs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about HSAs:

Can I have an HSA and FSA at the same time?

Yes, you can have both an HSA and FSA if your FSA is “limited purpose” and excludes medical expenses already covered by the HSA.

What happens to my HSA if I lose my high-deductible health plan?

You can no longer contribute to your HSA but can use the remaining funds for qualified expenses. Check the rules around switching to a non-HSA plan.

Can I use HSA funds to pay for medical expenses for my dependents?

Yes, HSA funds can pay for qualified medical expenses for your spouse or tax dependents without tax penalty.

Is the interest earned in an HSA taxable?

No. All interest, dividends, and capital gains grow tax-free in an HSA.

Can I reimburse myself from my HSA for past medical expenses?

Yes, you can reimburse yourself for past qualified medical expenses, provided the expenses were incurred after you established the HSA.

To learn more about Health Savings Accounts and determine if an HSA is right for your needs, consult a financial advisor or benefits planner who can guide you through the eligibility requirements, contribution limits, and how to maximize this powerful healthcare savings tool.