2011 HSA Contribution Limits
IRS-set limits for Health Savings Account contributions, HDHP deductible minimums, and out-of-pocket maximums for 2011.
Note: IRS Revenue Procedure 2010-22. No increase from 2010 due to low inflation.
Annual Contribution Limits
| Coverage | Limit | With Catch-Up (55+) |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Only | $3,050 | $4,050 |
| Family | $6,150 | $7,150 |
HDHP Requirements (2011)
| Requirement | Self-Only | Family |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deductible | $1,200 | $2,400 |
| Out-of-Pocket Maximum | $5,950 | $11,900 |
How to Maximize Your 2011 HSA
Max out early
Contributing your full $3,050 (self-only) or $6,150 (family) early in the year gives your investments more time to grow tax-free.
Check your limitInvest the balance
Once you have a cash cushion for near-term expenses, invest the rest. HSA funds grow tax-free and withdrawals for qualified expenses are never taxed.
Use the shoebox strategy
Pay medical bills out of pocket and save your receipts. Let your HSA grow invested, then reimburse yourself years later - tax-free. No deadline on reimbursement.
See how much you could saveCatch-up contributions (55+)
If you're 55 or older, you can contribute an extra $1,000 per year. That's up to $4,050 (self-only) or $7,150 (family) in 2011.
What Changed from 2010 to 2011
The IRS adjusts HSA limits annually based on inflation. Here's what changed:
| Category | 2010 | 2011 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Only Limit | $3,050 | $3,050 | +$0 |
| Family Limit | $6,150 | $6,150 | +$0 |
| Min Deductible (Self-Only) | $1,200 | $1,200 | No change |
| Min Deductible (Family) | $2,400 | $2,400 | No change |
| OOP Max (Self-Only) | $5,950 | $5,950 | +$0 |
| OOP Max (Family) | $11,900 | $11,900 | +$0 |
2011 HSA FAQs
What are the 2011 HSA contribution limits?
For 2011, the HSA contribution limit is $3,050 for self-only coverage and $6,150 for family coverage. Individuals age 55+ can contribute an additional $1,000 as a catch-up contribution.
What is the HDHP minimum deductible for 2011?
For 2011, the minimum deductible for an HSA-qualifying HDHP is $1,200 (self-only) and $2,400 (family).
What is the out-of-pocket maximum for 2011?
For 2011, the maximum out-of-pocket expenses for an HSA-qualifying HDHP are $5,950 (self-only) and $11,900 (family).
Can I contribute to my HSA if I'm over 55?
Yes. If you're 55 or older, you can make an additional catch-up contribution of $1,000 on top of the standard limit, bringing your total to $4,050 (self-only) or $7,150 (family) for 2011.
Can both spouses contribute to separate HSAs?
Yes. If both spouses have their own HDHP coverage, each can open and contribute to their own HSA. The family contribution limit of $6,150 applies per HDHP, not per HSA. If one spouse has family HDHP coverage, the total combined contributions to both HSAs cannot exceed the family limit.
What is the HSA catch-up contribution for 2011?
The HSA catch-up contribution for 2011 is $1,000. This is available to anyone age 55 or older by the end of the tax year. It's added on top of the standard limit, giving you a total of $4,050 (self-only) or $7,150 (family).
When is the deadline to contribute to my HSA for 2011?
The deadline to make HSA contributions for 2011 is April 15, 2012 (the tax filing deadline). You can contribute up to the annual limit any time between January 1, 2011 and the filing deadline. Employer contributions made during the calendar year also count toward your limit.
Can my employer contribute to my HSA?
Yes. Employer contributions are allowed and count toward your annual limit of $3,050 (self-only) or $6,150 (family) for 2011. Combined employee and employer contributions cannot exceed these limits. Employer contributions are excluded from your gross income and are not subject to payroll taxes.
What happens if I over-contribute to my HSA?
Excess contributions are subject to a 6% excise tax for each year they remain in the account. To avoid the penalty, withdraw the excess amount (plus any earnings on it) before your tax filing deadline, including extensions. The withdrawn earnings are taxed as income. Use our contribution limits calculator to make sure you stay within the 2011 limits.
Other Years
Related Resources
Contribution Limits Calculator
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Tax Savings Calculator
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