Medicare Advantage OTC Benefits and Flex Cards in 2027: Who Gets One and What Changed

A recent analysis of 2027 CMS plan filings reveals that the prevalence of over-the-counter (OTC) allowances in Medicare Advantage plans has declined, with the share of standard plans offering these benefits dropping from 66.3% to 58.0%. While these cards are often marketed for grocery and utility expenses, the report clarifies that such food benefits are rarely included in standard plans and are primarily reserved for special needs plan members.