Medicare flex cards, sometimes referred to as Medicare spending cards, can help cover specific expenses not included in Original Medicare. If you’re considering a plan that offers this benefit, you might wonder where to get one and how they function.
It’s important to note that Medicare flex cards are not available through Original Medicare. Only Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C plans, provide this benefit.
Curious if a Medicare flex card is right for you? Let’s explore the basics, including how these cards work, the benefits they offer, and how to obtain one.
How Medicare Advantage flex cards work
A Medicare flex card is a preloaded debit card designed for health and wellness-related expenses that your plan may not cover fully. These expenses can include over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and supplies, hearing, dental, and vision services, among others.
The amount loaded on your flex card is determined by your Medicare Advantage plan. Some cards may be available only to certain members, such as those with special needs, chronic illnesses, or dual eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Each plan sets its own allowance and spending rules for the flex card. Plans may load your card annually or in installments. Typically, you can use your card only with participating pharmacies, vendors, and care providers.
Medicare Advantage Flex Card Benefits for Seniors
Flex cards provide numerous advantages, making it easy to access funds for healthcare expenses. Some plans even allow members to use their cards to pay for plan copays, offering significant financial relief.
Who Qualifies for a Medicare Advantage Flex Card?
To obtain a Medicare flex card, you must be eligible for and enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes a flex card as a benefit. Eligibility for a Medicare Advantage plan requires qualification for Original Medicare Parts A and B, meaning you must be 65 years or older or have a qualifying disability. Individuals with qualifying disabilities must have received Social Security benefits for at least 24 months or have end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Enrollment in a Medicare Advantage plan can occur during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which begins when you turn 65. If you miss this period, you can still enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event.
Remember, you cannot purchase a flex spending card independently of a Medicare Advantage plan. It is not a standalone perk and can only be obtained through specific plans. Being aware of this can help you avoid common Medicare flex card scams.
Does Everyone on a Medicare Advantage Plan Get a Flex Card?
No, not all Medicare Advantage plans offer a flex card. If you are interested in obtaining one, you need to explore Medicare Advantage plans from private insurers that include this benefit.
What You Can Buy with a Medicare Advantage Flex Card
A Medicare flex card can be used for various benefits, depending on your plan’s allowances. Generally, your allowance can be spent on medical necessities and services or products that support your well-being. These often include:
- Dental, hearing, and vision services and devices
- Over-the-counter non-prescription medicines and health items like vitamins and toothpaste
- Assistive devices such as grab bars, handrails, and mobility ramps
- Groceries and meal delivery
- Transportation expenses
- Fitness needs like gym memberships and exercise equipment
Before making a purchase, check if your plan has restrictions on where you can use the card, such as participating pharmacies or vendors.
How to Apply for a Flex Card
To get a flex card, you must enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers this benefit. Flex cards cannot be obtained independently. Be on the lookout for this benefit when comparing plans.
Here are some important questions to ask when considering a plan that offers a flex card:
- How much money is on the Medicare flex card?
- Is it loaded annually or in installments?
- Which benefits can you use the card for?
- If you don’t spend the entire balance, do the funds roll over to the next year?