Can someone on a spouse's non-QHDHP contribute to an HSA?

Can someone on a spouse's non-QHDHP contribute to an HSA?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if the spouse contributes
• D. Yes, but the account is in the spouse's name

Answer: (B)

Contributing to an HSA requires being covered by a qualifying high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and having no disqualifying other coverage. If you’re on a spouse’s plan that is not a qualifying HDHP, that coverage isn’t eligible HDHP coverage, so you don’t meet the eligibility criteria to contribute to an HSA. In other words, the plan you’re on isn’t sufficient to unlock HSA eligibility, even if your spouse would like to contribute or if the account is tied to your spouse in some way. HSAs are tied to your own eligibility and your own HDHP coverage, so with non-QHDHP coverage through a spouse, contribution isn’t allowed. That’s why the answer is No.

Contributing to an HSA requires being covered by a qualifying high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and having no disqualifying other coverage. If you’re on a spouse’s plan that is not a qualifying HDHP, that coverage isn’t eligible HDHP coverage, so you don’t meet the eligibility criteria to contribute to an HSA. In other words, the plan you’re on isn’t sufficient to unlock HSA eligibility, even if your spouse would like to contribute or if the account is tied to your spouse in some way. HSAs are tied to your own eligibility and your own HDHP coverage, so with non-QHDHP coverage through a spouse, contribution isn’t allowed. That’s why the answer is No.