Many older adults don’t know they might have OTC benefits through their health plans.
These benefits let you get health and wellness products at no cost. Signing up for OTC benefits is easy and can save you money on things you use every day.
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The process starts with checking if your plan offers this perk.
Medicare Advantage plans often include it.
If you have it, you’ll get a card or account to buy approved items.
These can include vitamins, pain relief, and cold medicines.
Once you’re set up, you can shop online or in stores.
Some plans give you a set amount to spend each month or quarter.
It’s a great way to stock up on health essentials without spending extra cash.
Key Takeaways
- Many health plans offer free OTC benefits for everyday health items
- Members can shop online or in-store using a special card or account
- Unused benefits may expire, so it’s smart to use them regularly
Signing Up for OTC Benefits
Getting OTC benefits can save you money on health items.
Let’s look at how these benefits work, who can get them, and how to use them.
Understanding OTC Benefits
OTC benefits help pay for health products you buy without a prescription.
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer this perk.
It’s like having extra cash for things like:
• Pain relievers
• Vitamins
• Cold medicines
• First aid supplies
The amount you get varies by plan.
Some give $25 a month, others $100 or more.
Check your plan details to see what you can spend.
You can’t save unused money for later.
It’s “use it or lose it” each period.
But don’t worry – there are plenty of useful items to choose from!
Eligibility and Enrollment
To get OTC benefits, you need to be in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers them.
Not all plans do, so it’s key to check.
Steps to enroll:
- Review Medicare Advantage plans in your area
- Look for ones with OTC benefits
- Compare costs and coverage
- Sign up during open enrollment or when you first qualify
Need help? Medicare plan experts can guide you.
They’ll explain your options and help you pick the best plan.
Once enrolled, you’ll get info on how to use your benefit.
This might come in your welcome packet or a separate mailing.
Using UnitedHealthcare UCard
If you have a UnitedHealthcare plan, you might get a UCard for your OTC benefits.
It’s like a debit card for health items.
Here’s how it works:
- Your plan loads money on the card each quarter
- Use it at approved stores or online
- Buy items from the OTC catalog
- Check your balance anytime
The UCard makes shopping easy.
Just swipe it at the store or enter the number online.
No need to save receipts or ask for reimbursement.
Remember, you can only buy approved items.
If you’re not sure, ask the store or check your plan’s list.
Ordering and Using OTC Products
Getting OTC products with your benefits is easy.
You can shop online or in stores for items like vitamins and pain relievers.
Let’s look at how to order, where to use your benefits, and some popular items.
Ordering Process
Ordering OTC products with your benefits is simple.
You can shop online at CVS.com or call customer service to place an order.
Many plans offer a catalog you can browse.
To order:
- Check your balance
- Pick eligible items
- Place your order online or by phone
Some plans load funds to a special card each quarter.
Others may send you a code to use at checkout.
If you need help, don’t worry.
A licensed insurance agent can guide you through the process.
Where to Use Your Benefits
You can use your OTC benefits at many stores across the United States and U.S. territories.
Popular places to shop include:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Other participating stores
In CVS stores, look for blue tags.
These mark items you can buy with your OTC benefits.
Some plans let you shop online too.
This can be handy if you can’t get to a store easily.
Remember, you usually can’t use your benefits at CVS stores inside Target or Schnucks.
Popular OTC Products
Your OTC benefits cover a wide range of helpful items.
Here are some common products people often buy:
- Vitamins and supplements
- Pain relievers
- Cold and flu remedies
- First aid supplies
- Dental care items
Many folks stock up on everyday health items.
This helps them save money on things they use often.
Some plans even cover healthy foods along with OTC products.
Check your plan details to see what’s included.
Don’t forget to use your benefits before they expire.
Most plans refresh your balance each quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting OTC benefits can be confusing.
Here are answers to some common questions about signing up and using OTC cards.
What’s the process to apply for an OTC card online?
To apply for an OTC card online, visit your Medicare Advantage plan’s website.
Look for a section on OTC benefits or extras.
Fill out any required forms with your personal and plan information.
Submit the application and wait for approval.
How do I sign up for OTC benefits at CVS?
CVS doesn’t handle OTC benefit signups directly.
Instead, check if your Medicare Advantage plan includes OTC benefits.
If it does, you’ll get an OTC card to use at CVS and other stores.
Contact your plan for signup details.
Can I get an OTC card if I’m on Medicaid?
Medicaid itself doesn’t typically offer OTC cards.
But some Medicare-Medicaid plans (for people eligible for both) may include OTC benefits.
Check with your state Medicaid office or current health plan to see what’s available.
How can I check if I’m eligible for OTC benefits?
To check OTC benefit eligibility, review your Medicare Advantage plan documents.
Look for sections on extra benefits or OTC allowances.
You can also call your plan’s customer service number to ask about OTC coverage.
What’s the deal with the money on my OTC card?
OTC cards often come with a set amount to spend each quarter.
This money is for buying approved health items at participating stores.
Unused funds may not roll over, so it’s good to use them before they expire.
Is there a way to find out if I qualify for an OTC card in NYC?
NYC residents can check OTC card eligibility through their Medicare Advantage plan.
Contact your plan directly or visit their website.
Then, look for NYC-specific OTC benefit information or call the local plan office for details.