HSA IRS and Department of Treasure Publications
Since the inception of Health Savings Accounts, in December of 2003, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Treasury Department have provided valuable resources for consumers and tax professionals on HSAs. Here are some of their most important publications, notices, guidance and communications.
IRS
Publication 502: Medical and Dental Expenses
This publication explains the itemized deduction for medical and dental expenses that you can claim. For the purposes of Health Savings Accounts, it provides the most comprehensive list published by the IRS on HSA qualified expenses.
Publication 969
This publication explains
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs), Health flexible spending arrangements (FSAs), and Health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs).
Notice 2008-51 – IRA to HSA transfers
This notice provides guidance on funding a Health Savings Account from an individual’s Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or Roth IRA.
Notice 2008-52 – Full Contribution Rule
This notice provides guidance on amendments to the Internal Revenue Code that modified the rules relating to annual contribution limits to HSAs.
Notice 2008-59
Presented in a question and answer format, this notice provides comprehensive guidance on Health Savings Accounts.
The Treasury Department
HSA Basics
Published by the Treasury Department, HSA Basics is a tri-fold brochure that provides a clear and concise overview of Health Savings Accounts and the HSA-qualified high deductible health plans.
All About HSAs
Similar to HSA Basics but formatted like a presentation, All About HSAs provides a comprehensive explanation of Health Saving Accounts and the health insurance plans associated with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Divided into nine categories, these frequently asked questions cover all topics relating to HSAs. You can also view a similar list of Health Savings Account Q&A here on HSAConnect.com.
2009 HSA Indexed Amounts
Each year the Treasury issues new HSA contribution limits. For 2009 the maximum contribution for those with individual coverage on an HSA-qualified high deductible health plan will be $3,000; for those with family coverage the maximum contribution will be $5,950. Catch-up contributions for individuals who are 55 or older will be $1,000 for 2009 and beyond.
2008 HSA Indexed Amounts
The contribution limits for 2008 are $2,900 for those with individual coverage and $5,800 for those with family coverage. The Catch-up contribution is $900.
2007 HSA Indexed Amounts
If you are still doing your 2007 taxes then you’ll be interested to know the contribution limits for that year. Although, you will have had to deposit the money in your Health Savings Account prior to April 15, 2008.
Health Savings Accounts
The official HSA section of the Treasury Department’s website – includes all of the information provided here, as well as additional notices, guidance and press releases.
Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003
This is the legislation that started it all. Signed in December of 2003, this act created Health Savings Accounts. On January 1, 2004 HSAs were available to eligible individuals and families.
Health Opportunity Patient Empowerment Act of 2006
The Treasury Department's press release on this statute, which amended the Internal Revenue Code relating to Health Savings Accounts; including modifications to the rules relating to the annual HSA contributions limits.
Press Releases
Lists each of the press releases issued by the Treasury Department regarding Health Savings Accounts.
