How Can I Reimburse Purchases From My HSA?

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), you've probably run into a situation where you want to use HSA funds for an eligible purchase, but your HSA debit card isn't accepted—or you prefer to pay out of pocket. The good news is, you can reimburse yourself later for that eligible expense from your HSA, as long as you have the appropriate documentation.

Below is a simple guide on how to navigate the reimbursement process, along with helpful links to reimbursement forms for popular HSA providers.

1. Verify the Expense is Eligible

Before you reimburse yourself, make sure the purchase meets the IRS rules for qualified medical expenses.

• IRS Publication 969: Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans

• IRS Publication 502: Medical and Dental Expenses

These publications clarify what's considered qualified (e.g., doctor visits, prescriptions, certain OTC products) and what isn't (e.g., purely cosmetic procedures).

Pro Tip: Shopping with Burst's partner merchants at Burst shop can help automate the HSA reimbursement process. Our partners handle documentation requirements automatically, so you can focus on your health needs rather than paperwork.

2. Keep Proper Documentation

You'll need receipts or invoices that show:

• Date of purchase or service.

• Description of the product or service.

• Amount paid.

Having this information handy ensures you can prove the expense was qualified if you're ever audited.

3. Choose Your Reimbursement Method

There are two main options for reimbursement:

• Online Reimbursement: Many HSA portals allow you to submit a claim or reimbursement request online.

• Paper Forms: If you prefer or need a paper trail, you can fill out a reimbursement form from your HSA provider.

4. Download the Right Form

If your HSA administrator doesn't offer online reimbursement (or if you simply prefer paper forms), here are some common links to HSA reimbursement forms. Always double-check you have the most current version:

• Optum: Optum HSA Reimbursement Form

• HealthEquity: HealthEquity HSA Reimbursement Form

• Bank of America: Bank of America HSA Reimbursement Link

• Fidelity: Fidelity HSA Distribution (Reimbursement) Form

• Cigna: Cigna HSA Withdrawal Form

• TASC: TASC HSA Claims Reimbursement Form

• LivelyMe: Lively HSA Reimbursement Link

If any links become outdated, head to your provider's official website and search for “HSA reimbursement form” or contact customer service for the latest version.

5. Submit Your Form and Wait

After filling out the form and attaching any necessary documentation (e.g., receipts), submit it to your HSA provider:

• Online Submission: Usually processes faster.

• Mail or Fax: Traditional, but might have a longer turnaround time.

Reimbursements can be deposited into your checking account or sent via paper check, depending on your provider's policy and your preferences.

6. Coming Soon: One-Click Reimbursement With Burst

If juggling forms and documentation feels cumbersome, you'll be happy to know that a one-click reimbursement feature is coming soon to Burst. Burst already helps you determine HSA-eligible items while shopping online, and soon you'll be able to instantly request reimbursement for those out-of-pocket purchases — without the hassle of lengthy forms.

In Summary

Reimbursing yourself from your HSA is straightforward once you understand the process:

1. Confirm the expense is qualified (using official IRS guidelines or shopping with Burst partners).

2. Maintain proper documentation.

3. Use your provider's online portal or complete a reimbursement form.

4. Submit the claim and wait for the funds.

By following IRS guidelines, keeping receipts, and shopping with Burst's partner merchants, you can confidently use your HSA regardless of where your card is accepted. Always consult your HSA provider or a tax professional if you have unique circumstances or questions.