Where Can an OTC Card Be Used? A List of Stores & Items

An Over-the-Counter (OTC) card functions as a pre-loaded debit card, provided by certain health insurance plans, most commonly Medicare Advantage plans. This card offers a defined allowance that beneficiaries can use to purchase specific health-related products and services. Its primary purpose is to help individuals manage everyday health expenses by making certain items more accessible without incurring out-of-pocket costs at the time of purchase.

Covered Products and Services

OTC cards typically cover a wide array of health and wellness products, though the exact list of eligible items can vary significantly based on the specific health plan and its benefit design. Generally, over-the-counter medications are included, such as pain relievers, allergy medications, cold and flu remedies, and digestive aids. First-aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze are also commonly covered.

Many plans extend coverage to personal care items, including oral hygiene products like toothpaste and toothbrushes, as well as certain skin care items and sunscreens. Vision care products, such as reading glasses and contact lens solutions, are often eligible for purchase through these cards. Additionally, vitamins and supplements, including multivitamins and specific mineral supplements, are frequently included. Some plans even allow for the purchase of certain healthy foods, such as fresh produce, dairy products, or lean proteins.

Where to Shop

OTC cards are accepted at a variety of retail locations. Common physical retail venues include national pharmacy chains and local independent pharmacies, which stock a wide range of over-the-counter medications and health supplies. Many large grocery stores also accept OTC cards, particularly those with a dedicated pharmacy section.

General merchandise stores, which often have extensive health and wellness aisles, are another common acceptance point for these cards. Some vision or hearing centers may also accept OTC cards for eligible products like reading glasses or hearing aid batteries. In addition to brick-and-mortar stores, many health plans offer online shopping options, either through specific retailer websites that partner with the plan or via a dedicated online portal provided by the health plan itself. These online platforms often provide a broader selection of items and the convenience of home delivery.

Making a Purchase

Using an OTC card for eligible purchases is generally straightforward, functioning similarly to a standard debit card at the point of sale. When making a purchase, the card typically needs to be swiped or inserted into a payment terminal. In many instances, a Personal Identification Number (PIN) may be required to authorize the transaction. It is important to select the correct payment option on the terminal, which might be labeled as “Health Benefits,” “FSA,” or simply “Debit.”

If the total cost of the eligible items exceeds the available balance on the OTC card, many retailers allow for split payments. This means the cardholder can use the OTC card for its remaining balance and then pay the difference using another form of payment, such as a personal debit card, credit card, or cash. Items that are not eligible for purchase with the OTC card must always be paid for separately using another payment method. The system is designed to automatically deduct only the cost of eligible items from the card’s balance.

Checking Your Card Benefits

Managing your OTC card benefits effectively involves regularly checking the card’s balance and understanding the allowance periods. Most health plans provide several convenient methods for cardholders to monitor their remaining funds. This often includes accessing an online portal through the health plan’s website, where beneficiaries can log in to view their current balance and transaction history. Many plans also offer a dedicated mobile application, providing real-time access to card information directly from a smartphone.

Another common method is to call the customer service number located on the back of the OTC card, which connects beneficiaries to an automated system or a representative who can provide balance details. Additionally, some retailers may print the remaining balance on the purchase receipt after a transaction, offering an immediate update. Understand the benefit periods, as funds may be allocated monthly, quarterly, or annually, and unused allowances typically do not roll over from one period to the next.