If you want to use your debit card, it is best to do so when paying for your prescriptions at the pharmacy or when using mail order. Because your claims are submitted and processed immediately, the pharmacist knows what you should pay and will charge you accordingly.

At your doctor’s office, claims must be submitted and processed at a later date. Because of this, the amount you are charged when you receive service may not match what you will be billed once your claim is processed. If you were charged more than you eventually owe, you must get a refund from your provider and put these funds back in your HSA or face tax implications. If possible, it is most efficient to pay for these services out-of-pocket and submit these claims online or use paper forms.