Best Medicare OTC Benefits 2026: Top Plans Compared

Which Plans Have the Best OTC Benefits?

Not all Medicare Advantage OTC benefits are created equal. The amount you receive, what you can buy, and how you can order varies significantly between insurers and plan tiers. Here's how the top plans compare for 2026.

UnitedHealthcare (AARP Medicare Advantage)

• OTC allowance: $40-$200 per quarter depending on plan tier
• Ordering: Online, phone, in-store at Walmart and Walgreens, or through the UHC app
• Standout: Largest retail network. Renew Active fitness benefit included with most plans

Humana

• OTC allowance: $35-$175 per quarter. Humana Gold Plus plans tend to have the highest amounts
• Ordering: CenterWell pharmacy, online, phone, and in-store at select retailers
• Standout: Humana often bundles OTC with grocery benefits in the same allowance

Aetna (CVS Health)

• OTC allowance: $25-$200 per quarter. D-SNP plans offer the highest amounts
• Ordering: CVS stores, online through OTC Health Solutions, and phone
• Standout: Seamless CVS in-store experience. MinuteClinic access for quick health screenings

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

• OTC allowance: $35-$275 per quarter. Available in 20+ states
• Ordering: NationsOTC online catalog, retail stores, phone orders
• Standout: Some of the highest quarterly allowances in the industry, especially D-SNP plans

Cigna

• OTC allowance: $25-$150 per quarter. Cigna True Choice plans offer competitive amounts
• Ordering: Online catalog, phone, and in-store at select pharmacies
• Standout: Strong supplemental benefits package including vision and dental alongside OTC

Centene/WellCare

• OTC allowance: $30-$200 per quarter. WellCare Giveback plans are popular
• Ordering: OTC Health Solutions online, phone, and InComm retail network
• Standout: Premium giveback reduces your Part B premium, plus OTC benefits

How to Choose

Don't choose a plan based on OTC benefits alone. Consider the total package: premiums, copays, drug coverage, provider network, and supplemental benefits. OTC is one piece of a larger value proposition. Use Medicare.gov's plan finder to compare all benefits side by side.