A Caregiver's Guide to the Medicare OTC Benefit

If you're caring for an elderly parent or family member with Medicare Advantage, there's a benefit they're probably not using: the OTC (Over-the-Counter) allowance. It gives them free health products every quarter — and as a caregiver, you can help them take full advantage of it.

What Is the OTC Benefit?

Most Medicare Advantage plans include a quarterly allowance — typically $25 to $250 — for over-the-counter health products. This covers:

• Vitamins and supplements
• Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic)
• Diabetes supplies (glucose strips, lancets)
• Heart health products (omega-3, blood pressure monitors)
• Dental care (toothpaste, denture cream)
• Digestive aids (antacids, probiotics)

Why Many Seniors Don't Use It

An estimated 70% of eligible members never use their OTC benefit. The reasons are common:

• They don't know about it — it's buried in plan documents
• Language barriers — especially for Spanish-speaking seniors
• Technology challenges — online ordering can be confusing
• They think it's a scam — "nothing is really free"

How to Help Your Parent (Step by Step)

Step 1: Check Their Plan

Look at their Medicare Advantage plan's Evidence of Coverage (EOC) or call the number on their insurance card. Ask specifically: "Does this plan include an OTC benefit?"

Step 2: Find Their Allowance Amount

The representative will tell you how much per quarter and what products are covered. Write it down — your parent will need this information.

Step 3: Order Together

Sit with your parent and help them choose products. You can:

• Order online at myotc.co
• Call 1-866-477-5117 together — our agent Maria speaks English and Spanish
• Choose a pre-assembled health box that matches their needs

Step 4: Set a Quarterly Reminder

Set a recurring reminder on your phone for the first of each quarter (January, April, July, October) to help your parent reorder. Benefits expire if not used.

Products to Prioritize for Seniors

Based on common needs for adults 65+, these products offer the most value:

1. Multivitamins — fills daily nutritional gaps
2. Pain relief — acetaminophen for daily aches
3. Vitamin D3 — most seniors are deficient
4. Thermometer — essential health monitoring tool
5. Blood pressure monitor — if they have hypertension
6. Compression socks — for circulation issues

Common Concerns From Parents

"Is this really free?"

Yes. The cost is included in their Medicare Advantage plan premium (which they're already paying). Using the OTC benefit doesn't change their premium or deductible.

"Will this affect my other Medicare benefits?"

No. The OTC benefit is separate from medical, dental, and vision coverage. Using it has zero impact on their other benefits.

"I don't use a computer"

No problem. They can order by phone at 1-866-477-5117. Our AI agent Maria speaks fluent Spanish and English and can walk them through the entire process.