Understanding Consumer Directed Health Plans (CDHP) with Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

Join HRS Benefits today for a presentation on the Consumer Directed Health Plans (CDHP) with Health Savings Accounts (HSA), at 3 p.m., via Zoom Meeting ID: 812 058 2016.

CDHPs are medical plans with lower premiums, offset by a higher deductible and out-of-pocket max. These plans are paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA), which WSU contributes $58.34/EE or $116.67/family monthly, and you may make additional pre-tax HSA contributions.

  • The HSA 2026 max contribution limit is $4,400/ee or $8,750/families. This includes both EE and ER contributions, as well as the $125 SmartHealth Incentive if earned. Employees 55+ may contribute an additional $1000.
  • HSA funds can be used on IRS-qualified out-of-pocket medical expenses, and carry forward year-to-year. Payroll contributions lower your federal and FICA taxable income.
  • HSA contributions are tax-free, the earnings are tax-free, and the funds remain tax-free if utilized for eligible health expenses.
  • CDHP enrollees must meet IRS eligibility requirements. If near or over age 65, Medicare enrollees may not also contribute to a HSA, and if they do there are tax implications.
  • During OE, CDHP/HSA enrollees may also enroll in a Limited FSA to cover eligible vision and dental expenses in 2026.

Visit HSA info or HRS Open Enrollment for more information.

HRS Benefits: 509-335-4589, hrs.benefits@wsu.edu

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