Can You Cash Out Your HSA in Canada?

If you’ve ever wondered, “can I cash out my HSA in Canada?”, you’re not alone. This question comes up a lot, especially toward the end of the year when people realize they still have unused Health Spending Account (HSA) or Wellness Spending Account (WSA) funds.

The short answer?

No, you cannot cash out your HSA or WSA in Canada. But understanding why, and how to make the most of it instead, can help you get more value from your benefits.

Why You Can’t Cash Out an HSA or WSA

HSAs and WSAs Are Not Savings Accounts

An HSA or WSA isn’t the same as a personal savings account or TFSA. The funds are employer-provided benefit dollars that can only be used for specific, eligible expenses. In Canada, these accounts are governed by CRA rules that clearly define what they can and can’t be used for.

Because of this, unused funds can’t be withdrawn as cash or transferred into your bank account.

The Account Is 100% Employer-Funded

Your HSA or WSA is funded entirely by your employer, not through payroll deductions or your own contributions.

Since this money was never part of your taxable income, it also can’t be converted into cash. Instead, it’s meant to reimburse you for eligible health and wellness expenses.

If funds aren’t used within the benefit period (or any allowed carryover window), they typically expire.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Your HSA?

If you don’t submit eligible claims before your plan deadline:

·      The funds expire

·      They don’t roll into your pay

·      They can’t be cashed out

·      They return to the employer

Not Sure How to Use Your HSA or WSA?

Depending on how your plan is set up, your HSA or WSA can often be used for far more than prescriptions and dental visits.

Common HSA-Eligible Expenses May Include

·      Prescription medications

·      Dental and prescribed vision care

·      Therapy or counselling services

·      Physiotherapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care

·      Fertility treatments or reproductive health support

·      Medical devices and supplies

Common WSA-Eligible Expenses May Include

·      Fitness memberships or classes

·      Mental wellness apps or programs

·      Nutrition counselling

·      Athletic fees or recreational activities

Eligibility varies by plan, so it’s always best to check your specific coverage.

If you’re unsure where to start, myHSA users can use Sage, our AI support agent, to check their eligible categories.

The Bottom Line

You can’t cash out your HSA or WSA in Canada, but that doesn’t mean unused funds have to go to waste.

These accounts are designed with your wellbeing in mind. With a bit of planning, your HSA or WSA can support everything from mental health and fertility care to fitness and preventative wellness.

Your future self will thank you.