Can I Use My OTC Card for Gas? Check Your Eligibility
Understand your OTC card's benefits. Discover what health expenses are typically covered and how to confirm your specific plan's eligible items.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) cards are a benefit offered by certain health plans to cover health-related expenses. These cards are pre-loaded with funds by the health plan. Their purpose is to help individuals access health and wellness products. This benefit aims to reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible items.
Understanding OTC Card Eligibility
OTC cards cover health and wellness products that align with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) definition of medical care. This definition includes expenses for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for affecting any structure or function of the body. Expenses considered merely beneficial to general health, without directly addressing a medical condition, are not included.
Common eligible items include over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and allergy medications. First-aid supplies like bandages and antiseptic wipes are also covered. Additionally, many plans include dental care products like toothbrushes and toothpaste, vision care items such as eye drops, and medical devices or equipment like blood pressure monitors or walking aids. Some enhanced plans may extend coverage to healthy food items.
Specifics on Gas Purchases
Most Over-the-Counter (OTC) cards do not cover the cost of gasoline. General transportation expenses, like fuel for a personal vehicle, fall outside the scope of what the IRS defines as a medical expense. OTC card benefits provide access to health and wellness products directly related to medical care, not everyday living costs.
However, there can be exceptions. Certain specialized health plans, such as “Flex Cards” or “Expanded OTC” benefits, may offer a broader range of covered items. Some plans, particularly specific Medicare Advantage plans, have begun to include transportation costs, such as gas or ride-share services, as part of their supplemental benefits. These benefits are not universal across all OTC cards and are usually tied to specific plan designs or for members with particular health needs. If a plan covers gas, it is an explicit benefit beyond the standard health-related OTC items.
Determining Your Plan’s Specific Benefits
Given the variability in OTC card benefits, it is important to verify the exact eligible items for your specific plan. The range of products and services covered can differ significantly between health plans and providers.
To determine your specific benefits, consult your health plan’s official website or member portal, listing eligible items and participating retailers. You can also refer to the benefits guide or welcome packet, sometimes called the “Evidence of Coverage,” provided by your health plan upon enrollment. For direct assistance, contact your health plan’s customer service number, usually found on the back of your OTC card or in your plan documents. Many plans also offer dedicated OTC card portals or mobile applications that allow you to check your balance and review eligible items.