No, you don’t need earned income to contribute to an HSA. You just need to be HSA-eligible, which means:
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You’re covered by a qualified high-deductible health plan (HDHP)
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You have no disqualifying coverage
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You’re not enrolled in Medicare
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You’re not claimed as someone else’s dependent
If you meet those criteria, you can contribute to an HSA—even if you’re unemployed, self-employed, or living off savings.
💡 Common Situations:
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A spouse on a family HDHP with no income can still open and contribute to their own HSA
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Someone taking a break from work but keeping HDHP coverage through COBRA or the Marketplace can still contribute
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Parents, spouses, or others can contribute on your behalf
🧠 Key Tip:
HSA contributions are allowed regardless of income, and you can still deduct contributions on your tax return even if someone else gave you the money.