What are HSA-eligible plans for self-employed buyers?

HSA-eligible plans for self-employed buyers are private ACA-compliant high-deductible health plans that meet the IRS 2026 definition of an HDHP (minimum deductible $1,700 self-only / $3,400 family; out-of-pocket max no more than $8,500 / $17,000), letting the accountholder open and fund a Health Savings Account (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-19). For 2026, the IRS sets the HSA contribution limits at $4,400 for self-only coverage and $8,750 for family coverage, plus a $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are 55 or older.

Reviewed by Jason Burns, Editor & Steward · Last verified 2026-07-19

What it means

  • The plan must have no non-preventive coverage before the deductible is met.
  • A self-employed buyer contributes directly to the HSA and takes the deduction on Form 1040.

Action steps

  1. Verify the plan is HSA-qualified in writing from the carrier.
  2. Open an HSA and set up monthly contributions to hit the annual limit.

Risks & deadlines

  • Enrollment in any Medicare part, or being claimable as a dependent, disqualifies you from HSA contributions.

Sources

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