Recently the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced (see Revenue Procedure 2016-28) cost-of-living adjustments to the applicable dollar limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) and high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) for 2017. Although one of the dollar limits currently in effect for 2016 will change, the majority of the limits will remain unchanged for 2017, with some of the limits remaining unchanged since 2015. The table below compares the applicable dollar limits for HSAs and HDHPs for 2016 and 2017.

HEALTH AND WELFARE PLAN LIMITS 2017 2016
HDHP – Maximum annual out-of-pocket limit (excluding premiums):
Self-only coverage $6,550 $6,550
Family coverage $13,100 $13,100
HDHP – Minimum annual deductible:
Self-only coverage $1,300 $1,300
Family coverage $2,600 $2,600
HSA – Annual contribution limit:
Self-only coverage $3,400 $3,350
Family coverage $6,750 $6,750
Catch-up contributions (age 55 or older) $1,000 $1,000

Plan sponsors should update payroll and plan administration systems for the 2017 cost-of-living adjustments and should incorporate the new limits in relevant participant communications, like open enrollment and communication materials, plan documents and summary plan descriptions.

IRS Announces Limits For Health Savings Accounts And High-Deductible Health Plans For 2017

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.