Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in Brighton, CO

What to know before you choose

For 2026 the IRS limits are $4,400 for self-only coverage and $8,750 for family coverage. For 2027 they rise to $4,500 and $9,000, with an extra $1,000 a year allowed at 55 or older (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-19 and 2026-24). A traditional high deductible plan qualifies in 2027 with a deductible of at least $1,750 self-only or $3,500 family and out-of-pocket costs no higher than $8,700 or $17,400.

The rules widened in 2026. Under the 2025 federal tax law, Bronze and catastrophic plans bought as individual coverage now count as HSA-qualified for months after December 31, 2025, even if they do not meet the usual deductible tests, including off-exchange versions of plans also offered on the exchange. People in certain direct primary care arrangements, with fees up to $150 a month ($300 for more than one person), can also contribute (IRS Notice 2026-5).

The money is yours. It stays with you if you change jobs or plans, and unused dollars roll over every year. Some people spend from the account as bills arrive; others pay current bills from savings and let the HSA grow for medical costs in retirement, including Medicare premiums. Keep every receipt, because you need them to show withdrawals were for qualified expenses.

An HSA plan is not right for everyone. A high deductible means you pay more before the plan shares costs, so it works best when you could cover the deductible from savings. If you have ongoing prescriptions or regular specialist care, I run the numbers both ways so you can see whether the tax savings outweigh the higher out-of-pocket costs.

There is also a Medicare rule. Once you enroll in any part of Medicare, including Part A alone, you can no longer contribute to an HSA, though you can still spend what is in it. If you are working past 65, I help you time Medicare and your last contributions. I am not a tax advisor, so I will tell you when a question belongs with your accountant.

Your needs and situation are unique, and I am committed to spending the time to get to know you so you get coverage and support that fits your lifestyle.

Colorado rules to know

Connect for Health Colorado notes the new HSA options for some Bronze and catastrophic plans among its federal changes, so ask about HSA eligibility when you compare 2027 plans during Open Enrollment, November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027.

How and when to enroll

1. Choose an HSA-qualified plan: a traditional high deductible plan, or for individual coverage from 2026, a Bronze or catastrophic plan.
2. Open an HSA with a bank or HSA administrator. You can contribute for any month you are covered by a qualified plan and have no disqualifying coverage.
3. Contribute through payroll if your employer offers it, or directly; contributions for a tax year can generally be made until the tax filing deadline.
4. Six months before Medicare, plan your last contribution month with me and your tax advisor.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Contributing after Medicare starts, including when Part A is backdated up to six months.
• Having a non-qualifying plan or a general purpose FSA alongside the HSA.
• Not keeping receipts for withdrawals.
• Choosing a high deductible you could not actually pay in a bad month.

How Lisa helps

• 2026 and 2027 contribution limits and the age 55 catch-up explained
• HSA-qualified plans that still work with your doctors and drugs
• Side by side math: HSA plan versus a lower deductible plan for your real usage
• The new Bronze, catastrophic and direct primary care rules in plain English
• Timing your last contributions around Medicare enrollment
• Help for self-employed people choosing a qualified individual plan

Who it fits

You are generally healthy, you can cover a higher deductible from savings, and you like paying medical costs with pre-tax money, now or in retirement. Self-employed people and families with steady incomes often fit well.