September 13, 2004

HSA Correction Guidance and Final Forms Issued

IRS Notice 2004-50 has been issued, correcting and revising Notice 2004-2 as follows:

The second sentence of A-2 is changed to read: An "eligible individual" means ... (3) is not enrolled in Medicare ... ."

The last sentence in the first paragraph of A-12 is changed to read: "In addition to the maximum contribution amount, catch-up contributions, as described in [Notice 2004-2] A-14, may be made by or on behalf of individuals age 55 and older, who are not enrolled in Medicare."

The first sentence of A-14 is changed to read: "For individuals (and their spouses covered under the HDHP) who have attained 55 and are also not enrolled in Medicare ... ."

Basically, the main correction has to do with Q/A-14 of Notice 2004-2 which originally stated: "After an individual has attained age 65 (the Medicare eligibility age), contributions, including catch-up contributions, cannot be made to an individual's HSA." However, as corrected, the sentence now reads: "After an individual has attained age 65 and becomes enrolled in Medicare benefits, contributions, including catch-up contributions, cannot be made to an individual's HSA."

Also, PlanSponsor.com is reporting that the IRS has issued final versions of two model health savings account (HSA) forms--IRS Form 5305-B ("Health Savings Trust Account") and IRS Form 5305-C ("Health Savings Custodial Account"). The forms can be utilized by HSA trustees and custodians, respectively, to allow individuals to establish HSAs.

Posted by B. Janell Grenier at September 13, 2004 01:23 PM