The age test is whether you are 55 or older at the end of the tax year, so someone who turns 55 on December 31 qualifies for the full catch-up for that year. The catch-up is added to the regular limit, and each spouse who wants a catch-up needs their own HSA (you cannot put your catch-up in your spouse’s account).
| Situation | Regular limit | Catch-up | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-only, full year | $4,500 | $1,000 | $5,500 |
| Family, one spouse 55+ | $9,000 | $1,000 | $10,000 |
| Family, both spouses 55+ (each with an HSA) | $9,000 | $2,000 | $11,000 |
| Self-only, eligible 6 months (prorated, no last-month rule) | $2,250 | $500 | $2,750 |
If you are eligible for only part of the year, the limit and the catch-up are both generally figured month by month (the last-month rule can allow the full amount; see that page). Once you enroll in Medicare you can no longer contribute: HSA and Medicare.
Worked example
A 56-year-old with self-only HDHP coverage and a $500 employer deposit has room for $5,000 of their own money ($4,500 + $1,000 − $500). Spread over 26 paychecks that is $192.31 each. See also HSA catch-up contributions and an HSA vs PPO example for someone near retirement.
Sources: IRS Publication 969; IRC section 223(b)(3). Checked October 18, 2026.
Related: HSA catch-up contributions · married couples · 2027 limits hub.
This is general information, not tax or insurance advice. Confirm details with your plan documents, the IRS and a qualified professional.
General education, not insurance, tax or legal advice. Figures from IRS and HHS publications; confirm with your plan documents.