Flex cards and OTC
Flex cards and over-the-counter allowances
What these cards actually are, who qualifies for them, and what you can spend the money on.
What a flex card is
There is no Medicare program called a flex card. The term describes a prepaid benefit card that some Medicare Advantage plans provide, usually preloaded with a set allowance for specific categories of spending.
It is a plan benefit, not a government benefit. That is why it varies so much.
What the allowance can usually be spent on
- Over-the-counter items such as pain relievers, first aid supplies, vitamins, and cold remedies
- On some plans, dental, vision, or hearing costs
- On certain special needs plans, groceries or utilities for people who qualify
Cards are typically restricted to approved items at approved retailers. Most do not roll over indefinitely, and unspent balances are often lost at the end of the quarter or the year.
Who qualifies
Broad grocery and utility allowances are usually attached to Special Needs Plans, which generally require a qualifying condition such as having both Medicare and Medicaid, or a specific chronic illness.
A general Medicare Advantage plan may include a smaller over-the-counter allowance with no special qualification beyond joining the plan.
Before you switch a plan for a card
An allowance is worth real money. It is usually worth less than the difference a wrong network makes.
Before changing plans, check that your doctors are still in network and your prescriptions are still on the formulary. We check both before we talk about extras.
Important: Benefits, and whether they are offered at all, vary by plan, by county, and by year. Not everyone qualifies, and not every plan includes these benefits. Nothing on this page is an offer of coverage. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program to review all of your options.
Official resource
Check the source, then ask for personal help
Educational information is general. A licensed agent can help with plan comparisons; agents do not provide medical, legal, or official eligibility advice.
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