The Wellcare OTC card is a valuable perk for many Medicare Advantage plan members in 2025.
This preloaded debit card helps cover health and wellness items without a prescription.
From pain relievers to healthy foods, it makes staying healthy more affordable. This guide explores how the Wellcare OTC card works, what it covers, and how to maximize its benefits.
What Is the Wellcare OTC Card?
The Wellcare OTC card, also called the Wellcare Spendables Card, is a Visa debit card included with select Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans.
It provides a fixed dollar amount to spend on over-the-counter (OTC) items and other health-related expenses. The card replaced the Flex Card in 2024 for a simpler experience.
Funds are loaded monthly or quarterly, depending on your plan. You can use the card at participating retailers, online, or via mail-order. It’s designed to reduce out-of-pocket costs for everyday health needs.
Who Qualifies for the Wellcare OTC Card?
Eligibility for the Wellcare OTC card depends on your Medicare Advantage plan. Members of Wellcare’s Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) often receive broader benefits. Non-D-SNP plans may also include the card, but coverage is typically limited to OTC items.
Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage (EOC) to confirm eligibility. The card must be activated before use, either online, by phone, or through the Healthy Benefits+ app. Some benefits, like utility payments, require specific chronic conditions.
What Can You Buy with the Wellcare OTC Card?
The Wellcare OTC card covers a variety of health and wellness products. Common items include pain relievers, cold remedies, bandages, toothpaste, and vitamins. Some plans also allow purchases of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and nutritional drinks.
Here’s a quick list of eligible items:
- OTC medications (e.g., ibuprofen, allergy relief)
- First aid supplies (e.g., bandages, antiseptic creams)
- Dental care products (e.g., toothpaste, floss)
- Healthy foods (e.g., produce, lean meats)
- Home safety items (e.g., grab bars, non-slip mats)
D-SNP members may use the card for utilities or rent in some cases. Always check your plan’s OTC catalog for a full list of approved items.
How to Use the Wellcare OTC Card
Using the Wellcare OTC card is simple but requires activation. Activate it through the Wellcare member portal, by calling 1-855-256-4620 (TTY 711), or via the Healthy Benefits+ app. Once activated, it works like a debit card at participating retailers.
In stores, scan items with the Healthy Benefits+ app to confirm eligibility. Online purchases are made through the Wellcare portal or partners like Walmart. If your purchase exceeds the card’s balance, pay the difference with another payment method.
Allowance Amounts and Funding Schedule
Allowance amounts for the Wellcare OTC card vary by plan, ranging from $144 to $2,880 annually. D-SNP plans often provide higher allowances, covering OTC items, groceries, and utilities. Non-D-SNP plans typically focus on OTC and health services.
Funds are loaded monthly or quarterly, and many plans allow unused amounts to roll over. Check your balance via the Wellcare portal or Healthy Benefits+ app. Review your plan’s EOC for specific funding details.
Here’s a table of benefits by plan type:
| Plan Type | Covered Benefits | Annual Allowance Range | Funding Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-SNP | OTC, groceries, utilities, rent, gas | $500–$2,880 | Monthly/Quarterly |
| Non-D-SNP | OTC, dental, vision, hearing | $144–$1,000 | Monthly/Quarterly |
Where to Use the Wellcare OTC Card
The Wellcare OTC card is accepted at over 66,000 retailers, including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Kroger. Use the Store Finder tool in the Wellcare portal or Healthy Benefits+ app to locate participating stores. Enter your zip code for nearby options.
Online shopping is available through the Healthy Benefits+ portal or partners like Uber Eats for grocery delivery. For utilities or rent, payments can be made via the member portal or provider websites accepting Visa. Confirm item eligibility before purchasing.
New Features for 2025
In 2025, Wellcare added home improvement and safety items to some plans. These include grab bars, non-slip mats, and other equipment to enhance home safety. This is especially helpful for members with mobility issues or chronic conditions.
The Twill by Dario platform offers 24/7 behavioral health support, complementing the Wellcare OTC card. Not all plans include these new benefits, so check your EOC. These updates aim to support whole-health needs.
How to Check Your Balance
Checking your Wellcare OTC card balance is easy. Log into the Wellcare member portal and select “Wellcare Spendables” to view your balance and transaction history. The Healthy Benefits+ app also shows real-time balance updates.
For in-store shopping, scan item barcodes with the app to confirm eligibility. Call 1-855-256-4620 (TTY 711) for balance inquiries or assistance. Regular checks help you plan purchases and avoid overspending.
Tips for Maximizing Your Benefits
To get the most from your Wellcare OTC card, activate it immediately upon receipt. Use the Healthy Benefits+ app to verify eligible items before shopping. Prioritize high-cost items like OTC medications or healthy groceries to maximize value.
Track your balance regularly through the Wellcare portal or app. Shop at preferred retailers like CVS or Walmart for the best savings. Contact member services for clarification on benefits or issues with the card.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Some members face challenges with the Wellcare OTC card. Confusion over eligible items, like certain paper goods or feminine products, is common. Gas purchases may not work at smaller stations or indoors.
Replacement cards can sometimes have activation issues, causing declined transactions. Customer service wait times may exceed 30 minutes. Use the Healthy Benefits+ app and plan materials to avoid these issues, and contact support promptly for help.
Member Experiences with the Wellcare OTC Card
Feedback on the Wellcare OTC card is generally positive. Members appreciate the flexibility to buy OTC items and groceries at major retailers. The ability to cover utilities or rent is a major plus for D-SNP members.
Some report issues with unclear eligible items or customer service delays. The Healthy Benefits+ app and OTC catalog help clarify coverage. Wellcare’s efforts to improve IT systems aim to address these concerns.
Why the Wellcare OTC Card Matters
The Wellcare OTC card reduces out-of-pocket costs for essential health items. It supports preventive care by covering products like vitamins and first aid supplies. The added grocery and utility benefits help members maintain a healthy lifestyle.
With over 30 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans in 2025, benefits like the Wellcare OTC card add significant value. Its flexibility and wide retailer network make it a practical tool for managing health expenses.
How to Handle Issues
If your Wellcare OTC card is declined, verify the item’s eligibility using the Healthy Benefits+ app. Contact member services at 1-855-744-8550 (TTY 711) with your member ID for quick resolution. Request a replacement card immediately if lost.
For online shopping issues, ensure you’re using approved platforms like Healthy Benefits+. Keep records of transactions and communications for reference. Acting quickly helps resolve problems efficiently.
Comparing Wellcare OTC Card to Other Plans
Many Medicare Advantage plans, like Aetna and Humana, offer OTC benefits, but Wellcare’s card stands out for its flexibility. D-SNP plans include unique benefits like utility payments, not always available with competitors. Non-D-SNP plans focus on OTC and health services.
Check your plan’s EOC to compare allowance amounts and covered items. Wellcare’s 66,000+ retailer network rivals major providers. Use Medicare.gov to compare Wellcare with other plans in your area.
Accessing the OTC Catalog
The 2025 Wellcare OTC catalog lists all eligible items, including medications, first aid supplies, and healthy foods. Access it online via the Wellcare portal or request a printed copy. The catalog is updated regularly to reflect new products.
Use the catalog to plan purchases and avoid non-covered items. Online shopping through the Healthy Benefits+ portal offers even more options. Check the catalog before shopping to ensure eligibility.
Summary
The Wellcare OTC card is a key benefit for 2025 Medicare Advantage plan members, offering funds for OTC items, healthy foods, and utilities. Available in 32 states, it provides $144 to $2,880 annually, depending on your plan. Shop at over 66,000 retailers or online via the Healthy Benefits+ portal. Activate the card, check your balance, and use the OTC catalog to maximize savings. Despite some challenges, the card’s flexibility makes it a valuable tool for managing health costs.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wellcare OTC card?
The Wellcare OTC card is a preloaded Visa debit card for select Medicare Advantage plan members. It covers OTC items, healthy foods, and utilities, depending on your plan. Activate it online or by calling 1-855-256-4620.
Who qualifies for the Wellcare OTC card?
Members of select Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans, including D-SNPs, are eligible. Benefits vary by plan, with D-SNPs offering broader coverage. Check your plan’s EOC for details.
What can I buy with the Wellcare OTC card?
The card covers OTC medications, first aid supplies, healthy foods, and home safety items. Some D-SNP plans include utilities or rent. Review the 2025 OTC catalog for eligible items.
How do I check my Wellcare OTC card balance?
Log into the Wellcare member portal or use the Healthy Benefits+ app to view your balance. Call 1-855-256-4620 (TTY 711) for assistance. Check regularly to plan purchases.
What if my card is declined?
Verify item eligibility with the Healthy Benefits+ app or OTC catalog. Contact member services at 1-855-744-8550 (TTY 711) for help. Ensure the card is activated before use.