What Happens to Your FSA / HSA Card Account When You Die
Quick Facts
FSA
Use-it-or-lose-it — funds may expire
HSA
Funds transfer to beneficiary or estate
Action
Submit eligible expenses, claim remaining funds
Step-by-Step Guide
Identify account type and balance
Determine whether the account is an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account). Check the current balance — FSA funds may be forfeited if not used, while HSA funds transfer to a beneficiary.
Estimated time: 15 min
Submit eligible expenses
Submit claims for any eligible medical, dental, or vision expenses incurred before the date of death. For FSAs, submit receipts before the plan deadline to avoid forfeiting funds.
Claim HSA funds if applicable
For HSAs, contact the HSA administrator to transfer the account balance to the named beneficiary. If the beneficiary is a spouse, the HSA can transfer tax-free. Non-spouse beneficiaries will owe income tax on the balance.
Close the account
After all eligible expenses are submitted and funds are distributed, close the FSA or HSA account with the plan administrator.
Document Now Checklist
- Account type (FSA or HSA)
- Plan administrator name and contact
- Current account balance
- HSA beneficiary designation
- Employer (if employer-sponsored)
- Debit card number (if applicable)
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with FSA / HSA Card. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
MyChart / Patient Portals
Document all doctors, hospitals, and patient portal accounts.
Health Insurance
Dependents on your health plan lose coverage when the primary holder dies. They have a 60-day special enrollment period to find new coverage.
Medicare
Note your Medicare number, Part A/B/C/D enrollment status, and any Medigap/supplement plan.
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