On April 27, the IRS issued Revenue Procedure 2012-26, announcing the 2013 inflation-adjusted dollar limitations applicable to health savings accounts (HSAs) and qualifying high-deductible health plans (HDHPs).

The maximum HSA contribution for an individual with self-only coverage under an HDHP will increase to $3,250 - up from $3,100 in 2012.  The maximum HSA contribution for an individual with family HDHP coverage will be $6,450 - up from $6,250 in 2012.  The "catch-up contribution" limit, for individuals who will attain age 55 by the end of the year, will remain at $1,000.

To qualify as an HDHP, a plan must specify a minimum annual deductible amount, with that amount based on whether the coverage is self-only or family.  Those deductibles have also been adjusted for inflation.  For self-only coverage, the annual deductible must be no less than $1,250 - up from $1,200 in 2012.  For family coverage, the annual deductible must be no less than $2,500 - up from $2,400 in 2012.

Finally, to qualify as an HDHP in 2013, the total annual out-of-pocket expenses (deductibles, copayments, and other amounts - but not premiums) may not exceed $6,250 for self-only coverage or $12,500 for family coverage.+

Sponsors of HSA arrangements and/or HDHPs will want to incorporate these new dollar amounts into their 2013 open enrollment materials.

Chadron J. Patton, Associate
Spencer Fane Britt & Browne LLP