Written by Michael LaPick
Healthcare Writer
We want to help you make educated healthcare decisions. While this post may have links to lead generation forms, this won’t influence our writing. We adhere to strict editorial standards to provide the most accurate and unbiased information.
Key Takeaways
- All Bronze and Catastrophic Marketplace plans are HSA-eligible starting in 2026, expanding access to tax-advantaged savings.
- HSAs help lower your taxable income and can be used for deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and other qualified medical expenses.
- Catastrophic plans now pair with HSAs and have expanded eligibility via hardship exemptions.
- Bronze plans typically offer better value for most shoppers, but Catastrophic plans may be the lowest-cost HSA option in some regions.
- To use an HSA, you must enroll in a Marketplace plan specifically designated as HSA-eligible.
Introduction
If you’ve ever wanted more control over your healthcare spending, 2026 brings a major update that can help. Thanks to new federal rules, all Marketplace Bronze and Catastrophic plans are now HSA-eligible, giving millions of consumers new ways to save money through tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
This expansion comes from the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation, which allows more people to combine low-premium health plans with the tax benefits of an HSA. Whether you’re self-employed, buying coverage for a family, or simply trying to lower your taxable income, understanding these updated ACA Marketplace HSA rules can help you choose the right plan for 2026.
Before you shop for coverage, here’s what the change means—and how to take advantage of it.
Get Quotes Matched to Your Budget and Needs
What Changed for 2026? An Overview of the New ACA Marketplace HSA Eligible Rules
Starting with the 2026 plan year, every Bronze and Catastrophic plan offered through the Marketplace will be HSA-eligible, according to Healthcare.gov. This change simplifies the process for anyone seeking a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) that works with an HSA.
For years, only some Bronze or Catastrophic plans met HSA eligibility rules. That created confusion for consumers—especially those trying to save tax-advantaged dollars for future care.
Now the rule is simple:
✔️ If it’s Bronze or Catastrophic in 2026, it works with an HSA.
(Plan availability still varies by state and region.)
Understanding HSAs: How They Work and Why They Matter
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged account you can use to pay for qualified medical expenses when paired with an HSA-eligible High Deductible Health Plan.
What HSAs can pay for
- Deductibles
- Copayments
- Coinsurance
- Many medical, dental, and vision expenses
(Confirm qualified expenses with your HSA administrator.)
Major HSA Benefits
- Tax-deductible contributions
- Funds roll over each year—no “use-it-or-lose-it.”
- You keep the account even if you change jobs or plans
- Potential investment growth over time
HSA Eligible Marketplace Plans 2026: What to Expect From Bronze Plans
Bronze ACA plans are already the most popular Marketplace tier due to their low monthly premiums. In 2026, they will become even more appealing because they are automatically HSA-eligible.
Why Bronze Plans Pair Well with HSAs
Bronze plans generally offer:
- Lower premiums
- Higher deductibles
- Some services are covered before the deductible
- Eligibility for the premium tax credit (if you qualify)
Best for:
- People who rarely use medical services
- Those wanting strong financial protection at low premiums
- Consumers who want the tax advantages of an HSA
Are Bronze plans HSA-eligible in 2026?
Yes. Every Bronze Marketplace plan will be HSA-eligible.
HSA With Catastrophic Plans: Who Benefits From 2026 Changes?
Catastrophic plans can be a great choice if you want the lowest possible premiums and protection from worst-case medical bills. In 2026, they also became HSA-eligible, something they were not universally before.
Who Can Enroll?
In 2026, Catastrophic plans are available to:
- People under age 30
- People 30 or older with a hardship or affordability exemption
- People who are not eligible for Marketplace financial assistance (they automatically qualify for a hardship exemption if Catastrophic plans are available in their area)
Bronze plans are usually a better financial value, but Catastrophic plans may be the lowest-cost HSA option depending on the region.
A team of licensed insurance agents are here to help you compare plans
How to Apply for a Hardship Exemption (If You’re 30+ and Want a Catastrophic Plan)
If you’re 30 or older and want an HSA-eligible Catastrophic plan in 2026, you may need a hardship exemption. Here’s a concise guide based on the official Healthcare.gov Marketplace form:
1. Get the application
Available through:
- HealthCare.gov/exemptions
- Marketplace Call Center: 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
- Trained local assisters at LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov
Language and accessibility support (large print, Braille, audio) is free.
2. Gather supporting documents
Depending on the hardship, you may need:
- Eviction or foreclosure notices
- Utility shut-off notices
- Medical bills you couldn’t pay
- Disaster-related reports
- Documentation of caring for an ill or aging family member
Some categories—like homelessness or domestic violence—don’t require documentation.
3. Complete the form
The tax filer for the household (“Person 1”) fills out and signs the application. You’ll list:
- Household members
- Social Security numbers (if available)
- The hardship category
- When the hardship occurred
4. Print, sign, and mail
Digital signatures aren’t accepted. Mail the signed application and copies of your documents to the Marketplace Exemption Processing Center (address listed on the form).
If approved, you’ll receive:
- A written decision
- An Exemption Certificate Number (ECN)
- Instructions for enrolling in a Catastrophic plan
You can appeal within 90 days if you disagree with the decision.
Comparison: Bronze vs. Catastrophic HSA-Eligible Marketplace Plans (2026)
| Feature | Bronze Plans | Catastrophic Plans |
|---|---|---|
| HSA Eligible in 2026 | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly Premiums | Low | Very low, but can be higher than Bronze in some areas |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | High | Highest on the Marketplace |
| Premium Tax Credits | Yes, if eligible | No |
| Services Before Deductible | Some services covered | 3 primary care visits |
| Availability | Nationwide | Limited regions |
| Best For | Most households | Under-30 adults or hardship-eligible shoppers |
If you’re still deciding between Bronze, Catastrophic, or another tier or other type of plan, this step-by-step guide to choosing the best health insurance plan can help you weigh premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs.
How to Open an HSA After Enrolling in Marketplace Coverage
Once you enroll in an HSA-eligible Marketplace plan, opening an HSA is straightforward.
1. Enroll in an HSA-Eligible Plan
In 2026, this includes:
- All Bronze plans
- All Catastrophic plans
- Any Marketplace plan explicitly labeled HSA-eligible
2. Choose a Bank or HSA Administrator
Compare:
- Fees
- Interest rates
- Investment options
- Mobile tools or apps
3. Contribute to Your Account
There’s no minimum contribution. The 2026 HSA contribution limits are $4,400 for individuals and $8,750 for families.
4. Use Your Funds Wisely
Pay for qualified medical expenses directly with your HSA or reimburse yourself later.
FAQ: Common Questions About HSA-Eligible Marketplace Plans 2026
Are Bronze plans HSA-eligible in 2026?
Yes, every Bronze Marketplace plan is HSA-eligible starting in 2026.
Do Catastrophic plans work with HSAs?
Yes, all Catastrophic plans become HSA-eligible in 2026.
Can I use tax credits with Catastrophic plans?
No, Catastrophic plans are not eligible for premium tax credits.
Do HSA funds roll over?
Yes. HSAs are not “use-it-or-lose-it” accounts.
Bottom Line
The expansion of HSA eligibility for all Bronze and Catastrophic Marketplace plans in 2026 gives consumers more ways to save money and plan for future care. Bronze plans offer the strongest mix of affordability and tax benefits, while Catastrophic plans can be the lowest-cost option for those who qualify for an exemption.
As you prepare for Open Enrollment, think about your healthcare usage, your household income, and how tax-advantaged savings could support your budget. Whether you choose a Bronze or Catastrophic option, the 2026 HSA-eligible Marketplace landscape offers more flexibility than ever.
Get Quotes Matched to Your Budget and Needs
Thank you for your feedback!
