OTC Card: When Does Your Health Benefits Card Reload Every Month?

An OTC card , which stands for "over the counter card," is a benefit offered under some Medicare Advantage plans that allows consumers to purchase certain items without a prescription.

It is important to understand that not all Medicare Advantage plans offer OTC cards and their availability may be limited in some areas of the United States .

How does the OTC card work?

Eligible recipients receive a fee-free card each quarter that allows them to purchase up to $70 worth of over-the-counter (OTC) items.

Before using the card for the first time, you must call the number on the card to activate it. To do this, follow the instructions on the label on the front of the card.

Once your card is activated, you can easily use it to make qualifying purchases at participating stores and wineries. Stores usually make it clear whether or not they participate.

In-store transactions do not require a PIN or signature, and the process is similar to using a prepaid card.

During checkout, you simply swipe your card to complete your payment.

It is important to remember that this OTC card is only for eligible OTC items. You must use another card to pay for medical services.

OTC balance transfer?

Any unused quarterly benefits will roll over to subsequent quarters, but you must use the remaining balance before the end of the year, on 31 December 2023.

If your expenses exceed your quarterly allowance, you can use your personal credit or debit card to cover the difference.

For your monthly health card payment, the OTC amount will be debited to your OTC card quarterly at the beginning of each calendar month .

Introducing Open Enrollment on OTC Benefits 2020