HSA for DPC!!
Okay, I’m not usually a “throw confetti over federal legislation” kind of person… but this is worth a little happy dance. Starting January 1, 2026, those with high‑deductible health plans (HDHPs) will finally be allowed to pay for their Direct Primary Care (DPC) memberships using Health Savings Account (HSA) funds—tax‑free!
No, you don’t have to read 900 pages of congressional text to enjoy this win. (I did it for you… okay fine, I lie. But others did and translated for me!)
What’s awesome about this, is the tax savings. I’m all about contributing my share and following the laws, but I’m not donating any more than I legally need! HSAs are a unicorn in the tax world— you contribute pre-tax, the money grows tax-free, and now you can pay for your DPC membership tax-free too! It’s a better option for employers and employees alike! Politics aside, this makes it much easier for employers to offer DPC + HDHP combos without everyone worrying about losing HSA eligibility. It complements my mantra of “use your health insurance like your car insurance.” Maybe legislation can someday set reasonable limits of HDHP premiums, but ehhhh, I digress!
It’s a “win” for the regular, everyday human! The DPC model was already great—longer visits, same‑day or next‑day care, less rushing—but before this change, the law was rather unclear. Starting in 2026, you can have HSA cover DPC. no policy debate required. And for those who love planning ahead, this means during 2026 open enrollment, you can pick a DPC membership, pair it with a HDHP, and pay for it with pre-tax dollars without any IRS side-eye!
Of note, there are some fee limits—- $150/month for individual or $300/month family. That’s essentially the tax-free ceiling. Our pricing easily falls within this limit unless you have a larger family all under one plan— but if so, the membership can be split such that you can take full advantage of your HSA! To take advantage of the updated HSA policy, the steps are simple— Have an HSA eligible HDHP—that’s still step one. Join a DPC practice with great pricing (check!). Pay monthly membership with your HSA. Boom. Tax-free. Keep contributing to your HSA like normal. Ta-Da! A rare win in the “healthcare paperwork” battle!
Remember— until January 1, 2026, the old rules still apply. (Translation: Don’t try this in 2025.) And recall that you still need insurance for the big stuff; DPC isn’t insurance or a replacement for major medical coverage. I’m excited though! DPC brings primary care back to its “old school” roots: real relationships, less waiting, and proactive health instead of a reactive, rushed, “take a number” deli couner approach. As I’ve always said— treat your health insurance like your car insurance— save it for a big illness or injury.
And now, the government is basically saying, “You know what? We’re cool with you using pre‑tax money for DPC.” In a polarized political climate, DPC is supported by both parties. And for regular people like us, that is a BIG win.
So politics aside, I’m thrilled!!
Until Next Time,
Dr. B
