Lifestyle‑Oriented Benefits

Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Benefits: Small Credits, Real Savings

Medicare Advantage members can use quarterly allowances for everyday health items. Here’s how to make the most of them.

What is an OTC benefit?

It’s a quarterly dollar amount included in many Medicare Advantage plans that you can use to buy non‑prescription health items—like allergy relief, first‑aid supplies, dental care products, and bathroom safety aids.

• Common amounts: varies by plan; often refills monthly or quarterlyCheck your plan portal
• No cash needed: use your plan’s card, app, phone order, or catalog
• Use it or lose it: benefits typically expire at the end of the period

Why you don’t hear much about it

OTC credits aren’t flashy, and ordering can feel confusing. That means this helpful benefit is often under‑promoted, even though it can reduce out‑of‑pocket costs—especially for folks on fixed incomes.

• Quiet perk: marketed less than dental, vision, or hearing
• Different amounts: varies across plans and regions
• Ordering hurdles: catalogs, apps, and prepaid cards can be tricky

Quick steps to use your allowance

• ▢Find your amount: Log in to your plan’s member portal or call the number on your card.
• ▢Browse eligible items: Look for OTC categories: allergy, digestive health, dental care, first aid, vitamins, and safety.
• ▢Pick high‑value products: Prioritize recurring needs (e.g., toothpaste, acetaminophen, bandages) to stretch dollars.
• ▢Place one order per period: Many plans require spending your benefit in a single order; unused amounts may expire.
• ▢Set a reminder: Put a calendar alert near quarter‑end so you don’t miss out.

Examples of eligible items

• Allergy & cold: antihistamines, decongestants, cough drops
• Digestive health: antacids, anti‑diarrheals, fiber supplements
• Dental & vision: toothpaste, floss, lens cleaner
• First‑aid & safety: bandages, thermometers, shower mats
• Vitamins & wellness: multivitamins, vitamin D, blood pressure cuffs

Common rules (check your plan)

• Plan‑specific amounts: monthly or quarterly credits differ by plan
• Purchase methods: in‑catalog, online, phone, or at partner stores
• No cash back: credits can’t be exchanged or transferred
• Expiry: unused credits usually don’t carry over to next year

Tip: Add essential items to a saved list so re‑ordering takes less than five minutes each period.

Community health & equity

OTC benefits help reduce everyday health costs but often fly under the radar. Sharing clear, simple guidance makes a real difference—especially for neighbors managing fixed budgets, mobility limits, or digital access barriers.

• Spread the word: add this to newsletters and workshop handouts
• Offer navigation help: host brief “how to order” demos
• Close the gap: ensure seniors know and use the benefit

Visit plan portal Call member services

Reminder: OTC amounts, eligible items, and ordering options vary by plan and region. Always confirm details in your member portal or by calling the number on your insurance card.

This flyer is for general health literacy. It does not replace information from your health plan.