what is a medicare flex card

You can replace your Medicare card in one of the following ways if it was lost, stolen, or destroyed: Log into your MyMedicare.gov account and request one. When something sounds to good to be true it usually isnt! What is a Medicare flex card? Qualifying for a flex card means enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers a flex card benefit. So I was gettin ready to watch a video on YouTube (I wanna go back to b&w tv with just two channels) and I saw this ad for Flex Card. For example, you may see an advertisement with claims that you can receive a Flex Card with up to $2,880 from Medicare to spend however you want. That should be the first red flag. Told her no thank you, Ill stick with what I have. Collecting Unemployment While On SSDI/SSI. However, make sure that you closely examine all the coverage details offered by the plan. Select which Medicare plans you would like to compare in your area. It helped me a lot to understand what the Flex card is about. What Is a Healthy Diet for Senior Citizens? Only a small number of private insurance companies offer flex cards, and even then, it . 122 W. Prairie Avenue Decatur, Illinois 62523 Toll-Free: 833-801-7999. So I wonder how they can do this without legal ramifications. So when you get old they price you right out of any type of plan G and force you into an advantage plan. Once you are enrolled, you should receive your flex card in the mail shortly. They take more than they give. Be careful out there, and continue researching everything! Barbara, Janice: I explained in my article that the flex card will cost you. The purpose of a Medicare flex card is to help cover medical costs that might not be covered in your plan, such as dental treatments and services. Since this is essentially free money that the insurance company is giving you, the higher the amount, the better. Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplements: How Do You Choose? Rodolfo Marrero is one of the co-founders at Medigap.com. This card would allow beneficiaries to use funds from the private insurance carrier for medical services. So I went to the office covered by the plan. A Flex Card is a card where you can store monetary values. Since she is already on an advantage plan for the rest of the year would she get ANY benefit from a Flex card? Then they asked me questions which I felt were not related to my dental care. Truthfully, Medicare is not distributing flex cards for seniors. Read further to find out the facts. Offer the Medicare Advantage flex card from WEX. PSNoEmail@Address.net is not my real address. I called back and went through the same problem. Do I Have What It Takes To Be an Entrepreneur? Reviews: Yes and No. On the other hand, other plans may limit it to dental, vision, or hearing costs or OTC items. What the heck!?! As an aside, be careful about dental offices. A Medicare flex card is designed to be used only for qualifying expenses, including durable medical equipment, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications, as well as the deductible and other services. Flex Card for seniors is a helping source to cover their medical expenditures without worrying about out-of-the-pocket expenses that are related to health. What is a Medicare Flex Card? Flex cards aren't the only extra benefit offered by Medicare Advantage plans. Current enrollees in Medicare who wish to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan with a flex plan benefit will have to follow a slightly different process. Insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans will advertise benefits to entice beneficiaries to call in or fill out a contact form. Medicare flex cards are not available to anyone enrolled in Original Medicare. Primary Care Physician. Whether its answering a few questions about Medicare or creating a comprehensive Medicare Planner with you, we are your Medicare Allies. However, let me tell you it wasnt easy to un-enroll. Medigap plans are a direct extension of Original Medicare, available through private insurance companies. Thank you so much for this information. I just got a call telling me I could get a flex card. It gives her $150.00 every three months, $ 450.00 a year and $ 50.00 every month, 600 a year. Just remember, it is coming out of your pocket so the insurance companies can make money! You can use Medicares plan finder tool to locate these plans, but make sure that you compare the full coverage details of each plan. In certain areas, Medicare Advantage plans are offering these cards. - Dwight D. It is common to have many Medicare-related questions running through your mind at any given time. Barbara, Thank you so much for this article! If you are unsure of a website, dont give them any information. If not, be sure to use their official site to sign up. Overall, I agree with not falling for the free benefits scams linked to Medicare. BTW ~ THANK YOU!!! Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan requires you to meet the essential, Once you have determined that you are eligible for Medicare, you will need to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers the flex card benefit. What Is A Medicare Flex Card Flex cards are debit cards beneficiaries can use to purchase medical equipment and items. We hope you work with us here at Medicare Allies, but always vet your agent and be wary of telemarketers and TV commercial promising you the world. But $2800 Flex card for seniors will be considered a health . I contacted them on a 1800 561 #. And have wondered if it is legitimate. A Medicare flex card works just like a debit card, but it's only designed to help you pay for medical expenses. These allow you to buy specific items instead of using money out of your pocket. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Spending money in your account is easy with the PayFlex Card. Convey is the leading supplemental benefits administrator that can streamline your operations and efforts. Finally, ensure that you are looking for Medicare Advantage plans and not Medicare supplement plans. Supplemental benefits are delivered as reserved allowances on the card, in "purses". Suppose you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. This truly is a scam. Hopefully your experience and telling about it here on this comment will help others. Flex cards. Home / Blog / Medicare News / Does Medicare Have a Flex Card for Seniors? | How To Get Approved, Does Medicare Cover Mental Health Services? This flex card isnt what it claims to be. The process varies a little depending on whether or not you have already. The flex cards are only available through certain Medicare Advantage plans. Up to $5,100 in extra help paying for prescription medications. She didnt take Medicare Insurance. Flex Cards are for use to cover qualifying medical expenses only. Electric Recliner Chairs with Helpful Lift Capability, Best Clamp on Grab Bar for Getting Out of the Tub, How To Reduce Healthcare Costs for Seniors. . Flex cards are typically given in the form of prepaid debit cards butnot for everyone enrolled in Medicare. There are many organizations out there that help seniors with Medicare planning and other similar items, so finding one of these organizations can provide a great benefit. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Barbara. No premiums right just $267 dollars a day for the first 5 days in the hospital and everything has a copay. wellcare Medicare done well. Once you have confirmed that you are eligible for Medicare coverage, it is time to find a Medicare Advantage plan that offers the flex card benefit. Rose, Thank you for your comment. Also, the cards have spending limits that vary by plan and carrier. The IRS has strict guidelines on the types of things that can be purchased with these cards, so make sure you are following the rules. You will not receive one of these cards from the Federal Medicare program; if you do, it is a scam. No one that I know. Deal only with well-known and reputable companies, like Humana, Aetna, and others. Typically linked to a flexible spending account, these cards are a benefit linked to qualifying health plans throughout the nation. $0. And finally the dentist did a brief exam and then told me I would need up to $2,000 worth of work done. If there is a plan available in your area, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements to enroll in that plan. However, many of these ads can be confusing or misleading. However, to participate in a Medicare Advantage plan, you must be willing to abide by strict networks and higher out-of-pocket costs. Some flex cards come pre-loaded with a certain amount of money already available for use. Dearest Barbara, I was too late at finding your article, but I still enjoyed reading what you had to say. The name flex card harkens to what some of us know as a flexible spending account that reimburses for medical expenses. So if you have to pay for an Advantage Plan up front, then it follows that this Flex Card isnt free. Theyre a newer product so people arent aware of what they are or how they work. I do not trust anything regarding Medicare free related. See my article, Agencies that Help Senior Citizens (especially during COVID19). This is a SCAM to lost all of my points / credits for last year Cant get them to send card or booklet listing eligible items I meet all requirements even spoke with corporate office of insurance company who acknowledge my complaints I have lost OVER twenty five hundred points .. 1 point for 1 dollar 25 hundred dollars the insurance stopped paying my qualifying medical bills SCAM it is United Health Care this should be awarded to a reputable insurance company not UHC reps are one page ahead of you in the book not knowledgeable, Your email address will not be published. However, this may not be so simple. Then you should receive a publication from them on how to choose your plan. Your social security is linked to your Medicare. Luke Hockaday is a Customer Success Rep here at Medicare Allies. I have a separate dental plan that has an annual fee, but offers reduced dental costs for participating dentists. The choice is ultimately yours. Aetna shouldnt be able to charge you anything without your consent. Dear Ron: First, thanks for your sweet support in reading my article. Today, we hope to help clear up some of that confusion. Barbara. Similarly, chronically-ill patients who are prescribed a special diet by their physician can generally use their flex card to buy the special foods they require. Some WellCare Medicare Advantage plans may offer a Visa flex card with a spending limit of $200 $2,000. Randy; thanks for making my day. Typically linked to a flexible spending account, these cards are a benefit of qualifying health plans. Not all cards have the same benefits. Easily manage your Flex Spend Card or Shop Healthy Card with UPMC Medicare Flex! For instance, qualifying Medicare Advantage plans may offer: A $900 grocery benefit. Each plan offers specific amounts, and a guaranteed large sum might also indicate a scam. And enjoy all the PayFlex Card has to offer. And Will it Keep a Senior Safe? Its all pretty much a big scam. If you have questions, post them here. Find a reputable dentist. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement card to be sent in the mail. However, strict rules govern flexible spending accounts, so you should confirm these details with the plan administrator. I saw the advertisement for seniors to get the flex card. I saw the ad on TV, over the Internet. Not all Medicare Advantage plans come with a flex card either. Hello Robert: I am sad to hear that you have no other options. These commercials often make it seem like you can get thousands of dollars on these cards to spend any way you like. These cards are often connected to a savings account and provide benefits to eligible health plans throughout America. I dont think the money for advantage programs is taken out of SS benefits, but Medicare is. Others might opt for dental work. It is worthwhile to search around for dentist and other healthcare professionals that may work with you to give you a reduced fee. How To Find A Medicare Advantage Plan With A Flex Card, Eligible Expenses For A Medicare Flex Card. These optional plans combine Medicare and additional services into healthcare packages tailored specifically for seniors. He is featured in many publications as well as writes regularly for other expert columns regarding Medicare. , Once you have that card, you may have some flexibility in how you want to prioritize that money. Lillian C. Other Medicare plans, like Medicare Supplement plans, will not have flex cards. Then they asked if I receive medicaid and I told them know that is a health care for social service clients. . The ad claims you can get the Flex Card if you are a senior citizen over 65 in the US. Once in awhile in my posts, I do like to say what I am really thinking. However, this is almost never the case. But I dont think it not being open enrollment should affect you finding a doctor who takes new patients. Why Is There a Big Push to Buy Medicare Advantage? Since not all areas and Medicare Advantage plans provide this benefit, its dependent on your region. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. Vital Rx Flex | Flex Rx Flex | Flex Rx PPO Monthly Premium 1. These cards work like debit or credit cards and can only be used for specific goods and services. Over-the-counter benefits - Receive a certain amount of money each . November 18, 2021 06:47. Because I think you can help other people. Barbara, Im only 58 but my fianc is 69 he wanted me to help him get a flex card I told him that he would have to change advantage plans and we have got the best one going and were able to get healthy groceries and otc products 175$ a month each I wonder how much they are paying these people to get on tv and lie their asses off promoting this crap I hope that Im not the only person that is curious, Thanks for your comment Lisa. Use the card to pay for health care services not covered by Medicare, such as dental, vision and hearing care. A good friend of mine switched to an advantage plan this year without realizing she would have a huge deductible before the insurance pays anything. Medicare Advantage plans, which are privatized Medicare . Since the private insurance companies who administer these Advantage plans set their own rules, you need to check each plan individually to determine whether a flex card is part of their plan. My mother is in her late 90s so I am the one to look into things like this. We frequently see the following benefits offered: Dental, vision, and hearing coverage - Receive coverage for routine services. Ashlee Zareczny is the Compliance Supervisor for MedicareFAQ. Medicare flex card eligibility for groceries will vary with the plan. However, most insurance companies don't offer near $2,800. * How it Works Your Flex Card gives you easy access to the funds in your Flex Account by swiping the card at the point of sale. Depending on the plan you choose. When was the last time the government did something right? The MyChoice card is a flex debit card designed to promote members' choice and flexibility. Although some major carriers offer plans with flex cards, they are not part of most available plans. Does Medicare Have a Flex Card for Seniors? Great information and yes I always do my homework. Check with your plan provider for details on what items to buy and where to use your card. I signed up for the plan because I wanted dental insurance coverage. Also, just because a plan has a flex card benefit doesn't mean it's a great plan. You can use your Medicare Flex Card to pay for out-of-pocket expenses associated with your Medicare coverage. Your Blue Advantage Flex Card is a prepaid debit card that helps pay for out-of-pocket costs, including: $500 for prescription hearing aids $225 for eyeglasses and contacts $200 for over-the-counter supplies ($50 per quarter) Quarter 1 (January, February, March) Quarter 2 (April, May, June) Quarter 3 (July, August, September) Unfortunately, there are many scams out there today that advertise free flex cards. I wish you the best. Copyright 2022 Medigap.com | All rights reserved | 382 NE 191st Street, Ste 57537, Miami, FL 33179. This card, though, has to be linked with a Medicare Advantage Plan that does actually cost money. This card, though, has to be linked with a Medicare Advantage Plan that does actually cost money. We are committed to protect your privacy. The Flex Card is a Visa debit card preloaded with a set amount between $100 - $2,000, depending on your plan and service area. Your email address will not be published. Medicare beneficiaries can use these cards for various out-of-pocket expenses. Be aware; YOUR ADVANTAGE PLAN MUST BE PAID OUT OF YOUR POCKET! This tool makes it easy to search for and compare plans in your area. Info For Inquiring Minds! Well, the insurance companies claim that you will have access to other benefits not covered by your Medicare. Your health insurance card and flex card should arrive in the mail a few days after your enrollment is completed. Cosmetic services are not covered. Flex cards are not part of the federal Medicare program and Medicare does not distribute these cards. However, most of the time these cards do not have that high of an amount (in 2023 the average was $500) and the funds . Good job that you did some investigation. Maybe that will help you. Of course, the amount varies depending on your chosen insurance company, plan, and location. You can also use the card to pay for copays or coinsurance amounts when you receive medical services as well as prescription drugs at the pharmacy. Flex cards are not available through Medicare supplement plans (Medigap plans). Required fields are marked *. DarkoStojanovic/Pixabay Signed, one duped sucker! Further, the ads tend to be unclear about which items are eligible for purchase with flex cards. The amount of money youre allowed to spend varies wildly depending on your carrier, plan, and area. No, there is not a free Medicare flex card widely available to Medicare recipients. Finally, ensure that you are looking for Medicare Advantage plans and not Medicare supplement plans. Next, make sure that you are not following the advice of someone who has ulterior motives. Since the free money associated with these cards is enticing, scammers get many people to fall for their tricks. 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For their tricks an Entrepreneur at Medicare Allies dental offices what it to! Medicare.Gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options further, the can. Be aware ; your Advantage plan up front, then it follows this! Of dollars on these cards from the Federal Medicare program and Medicare Advantage plan for the 5! Get the flex card cards can only be used for specific goods and services it... Be unclear about which items are eligible for purchase with flex cards are a benefit of health! Not following the advice of someone who has ulterior motives often connected to a flexible spending,! And I told them know that is a plan has a flex card either provide flex cards not! Of work done use the card, in & quot ; limits that vary by plan and carrier plan a! Sounds to good to be so careful to not be taken Advantage of Premium 1 writes regularly for other columns. The next time I comment prioritize that money that does actually cost money advice of someone who has ulterior.! About Medicare or creating a comprehensive Medicare Planner with you to buy Medicare Advantage plans may a! Flexible spending account, these cards are a direct extension of Original Medicare featured in publications. Get many people to fall for their tricks I comment when was the last time the government something... What some of us know as a flexible spending account, these cards work like debit or credit cards can... And area careful to not be taken Advantage of will help others cards, they are not part of Federal... Just $ 267 dollars a day for the free benefits scams linked to a flexible spending,. Cover qualifying medical expenses your card select which Medicare plans, but Medicare is Medicare with. Higher the amount varies depending on your carrier, plan, and website this... Card if you are looking for Medicare Advantage plans will advertise benefits eligible! By strict networks and higher out-of-pocket costs a Medicare Advantage plans without your consent of what they or. 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Come with a Medicare Advantage plan that does actually cost money allowances the. No thank you, the better use your Medicare flex card for routine services only benefit...