OTC Benefit (2024)

FAQs

How do I know if I qualify for an OTC card? ›

Approved items include fruits & vegetables, meats, dairy & more.

OTC items are not eligible if they are normally used for general health, are not used to treat a medical condition (e.g. lotion, shampoo (except for products used to treat dandruff), toilet paper, lip balm) or are cosmetic in nature (e.g. teeth whitening products, wrinkle reducers).

You can also get everyday items like laundry detergent, soap and toothbrushes.

How do I check the balance on my OTC card? Once your card is activated, you should learn how to check your account details. You'll especially need to check your balance and the amount you've used. Most cards have a toll-free number listed on the back of the card, which you can call to find out.

The OTC benefit — a common ingredient of Medicare Advantage plans⁴ — means funds to spend at pharmacies for OTC products. It might come as an OTC card you can use at participating retail stores. With this coverage, you receive a certain dollar amount per year, per quarter or per month.

OTC withdrawals are available up to the daily withdrawal authorization limits, provided the Available Balance in your account is greater than or equal to the cash withdrawal amount requested.

OTC items are not eligible for reimbursem*nt if they are normally used for general health, are not used to treat a medical condition (e.g. toothpaste, mouthwash, lotion, shampoo) or are cosmetic in nature (e.g. teeth whitening products, wrinkle reducers). See additional examples in the OTC Chart.

Examples of approved food items are fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy, rice, pasta, beans, and much more.

Items that do not qualify include non-food and pet items, alcohol, baby formula, candy, chips, coffee shop items, desserts, fresh baked goods, soda, and tobacco. To check if an item is approved, members can download the Healthy Benefits Plus app, scan the product and it will advise if item is allowable.

Is deodorant OTC approved? ›

Anti-perspirants/Deodorants

Because of this, all anti-perspirant/deodorant products are considered OTC drugs and are regulated by the FDA. The effect of an anti-perspirant on reducing underarm sweat and wetness has the additional effect of reducing odor.

Your OTC benefit helps you save money on a wide range of over-the-counter health and wellness products. You can use your benefit amount to purchase products such as pain relief, first aid, cold and allergy medicine, dental care items and more.

OTC Food Benefit Card

It can be used to purchase eligible food items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, bread, eggs. You can find a complete list of eligible items by clicking on this link: Full list of eligible items.

How do I know if I can use my OTC benefit card on a specific item? To confirm item eligibility, call your OTC plan provider at the number listed on the back of your card.

Refers to a medicine that can be bought without a prescription (doctor's order). Examples include analgesics (pain relievers), such as aspirin and acetaminophen. Also called nonprescription and OTC.

Categories of covered OTC items include generic and brand-name products for allergy, sinus, cold and flu; pain relief; home health care and daily living, including bathroom safety items; supports, braces and wraps; dental and oral health; eye and ear care; first aid; smoking cessation; diabetes care; foot care; ...

Your OTC benefit helps you save money on a wide range of over-the-counter health and wellness products. You can use your benefit amount to purchase products such as pain relief, first aid, cold and allergy medicine, dental care items and more. Check your OTC catalog for the list of items covered by your benefit.