Did you make adjustment to your Health Savings Account (HSAs) for 2026? There have been some important changes for employees and employers that you might not be taking advantage of. These updates are essential for individuals and families planning their healthcare spending and retirement savings.
Legislative changes under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) expanded eligibility, making these accounts accessible to more people than ever before. In this blog we are going to explain the changes so you can adjust in your own HSAs to maximize your opportunities for you and your employees.
New HSA Contribution Limits for 2026
For the 2026 tax year, the maximum contribution limits for HSAs will increase to account for inflation. Individuals with self-only coverage can contribute up to $4,400, which is a $100 increase from the 2025 limit. Families will see an increase of $200, bringing their maximum annual contribution to $8,750. These limits include all contributions made by both the employee and the employer during the year.
The catch-up contribution for individuals aged 55 and older remains unchanged at $1,000. This allows older account holders to contribute a total of $5,400 for individual coverage or $9,750 for family coverage. It is important to remember that if both spouses are 55 or older and wish to make catch-up contributions, they must each have their own separate HSA account.
Updated HDHP Requirements
To be eligible to contribute to an HSA, you must be enrolled in a qualified High-Deductible Health Plan. The IRS has adjusted the minimum deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket limits for these plans in 2026. For self-only coverage, the minimum annual deductible must be at least $1,700, and the annual out-of-pocket expenses cannot exceed $8,500.
For family coverage, the minimum annual deductible is set at $3,400, while the maximum out-of-pocket limit is capped at $17,000. These out-of-pocket maximums include deductibles, co-payments, and other cost-sharing amounts but do not include insurance premiums. Many plans also include an embedded individual out-of-pocket limit within family coverage, which is subject to specific Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements.
Expanded Eligibility Under Recent Legislation
One of the most significant changes for 2026 is the expansion of HSA eligibility through the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act. This change was implemented on January 1, 2026. All bronze and catastrophic plans available through an Exchange will be considered HSA-compatible. Even if they do not meet the traditional definition of HDHP. This allows many more individuals who previously did not qualify to begin saving in a tax-advantaged account.
There are new rules that allow individuals enrolled in certain direct primary care (DPC) service arrangements to contribute to an HSA. Under the new rules they can use their funds tax-free to pay periodic DPC fees. However, there is a stipulation that the fees do not exceed $150 per month for individuals or $300 for families. The legislation also permanently extends the ability to receive telehealth and other remote care services before meeting the HDHP deductible. All without losing HSA eligibility. This provision is retroactively effective back to January 1, 2025.
Which Plans are HSA-compatible in 2026?
A significant change taking effect in 2026 expands the types of insurance plans that allow you to maintain an HSA. According to HealthCare.gov and the IRS, all Bronze and Catastrophic plans offered through the Healthcare.gov are now considered HSA-compatible. This is a departure from previous years where these plans had to meet specific actuarial values or deductible structures to qualify. This change makes it easier for more people to take advantage of the tax benefits associated with an HSA.
Benefits Navigation and AI in 2026
Organizations projected a 10% hike in health care costs in 2026, according to data from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). Other studies have suggested even higher rates. So what do small businesses like yours do to try and curb that additional spending?
Some of the ways to try and curb the administrative costs have also changed with the introduction of AI. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a critical tool for managing benefits. AI-powered patient communication systems and chatbots are increasingly used to help individuals understand their coverage, choose cost-effective care options.
For instance, can they use services like urgent care over the ER? Or the new plans use AI to help automate benefits of education. Giving access to policy holders 24/7. These digital experiences are designed to enhance affordability and simplify the often-complex process of managing an HSA and navigating the evolving healthcare landscape.
Can I use my HSA for Direct Primary Care (DPC) fees?
Yes, beginning in 2026, individuals in certain Direct Primary Care arrangements can remain HSA-eligible and use their account funds to pay for DPC fees tax-free. This has been welcome news to many Americans. To qualify, the monthly fees must not exceed $150 for an individual or $300 for a family. Previously, having a DPC arrangement often disqualified an individual from making HSA contributions. That is no longer the case.
Can I Still Use my HSA if I changed Healthcare Plans?
While you must be enrolled in an HSA-qualified High Deductible Health Plan to make new contributions to your account. After you make those contributions you own the account entirely. If you switch to a non-HDHP insurance plan in the future, you cannot add more money to the HSA. However, you can continue to use the existing funds for qualified medical expenses indefinitely.
The beautiful thing about having an HAS is that any money in your HSA never expires. It will continue to roll over from year to year. This helps in providing long-term flexibility for your healthcare financial planning as noted by HSA Bank.
How Can AUI Help You with HSAs?
Whether you are new to HSAs, or want to check your plan to make sure you are maximizing your options. AUI is here to help. We simplify the complicated with health insurance for more than half a century. Our team is here to help you as a small business owner, or individual looking to get the most out of their health insurance benefits. Contact us today to learn more.
