If you have an Aetna Medicare Advantage plan with an OTC (Over-the-Counter) benefit, your extra benefits card comes loaded with a quarterly allowance for health products. But many members are not sure how to check how much they have left, when the balance resets, or even how to get the card in the first place. This guide walks through everything step by step.
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Important Disclaimer
Benefits vary by specific Aetna plan and location. The steps and amounts described below reflect common features across most Aetna Medicare Advantage plans, but your plan may differ. Always call Member Services at the number on the back of your Aetna card to confirm your exact benefit details.
Three Ways to Check Your Aetna OTC Balance
There are three ways to find out how much is left on your Aetna extra benefits card:
- Online at aetna.com (fastest method)
- By phone using the number on the back of your insurance card
- On your receipt after any purchase with the card
Check Online at Aetna.com
This is the quickest way to see your current balance:
- Go to aetna.com on your computer or phone
- Click Log In and sign into your member account
- Look for Supplemental Benefits or OTC Benefit in your dashboard
- Your current balance and quarterly reset date will be displayed
If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one at aetna.com using your Aetna member ID (found on your insurance card). You will need to set up a username and password. Once your account is set up, checking your balance takes less than a minute.
You can also check your balance through the Aetna mobile app if you have it installed on your phone. The app shows the same information as the website.
Check by Phone
If you prefer not to use the website, call Aetna Member Services:
- Find the phone number on the back of your Aetna insurance card
- Call and follow the prompts, or press 0 to speak to a representative
- Ask for your current OTC balance and your next reset date
The representative can also tell you which stores accept your card, what items are eligible, and whether your plan includes any other supplemental benefits you may not be using.
Check on Your Store Receipt
Every time you make a purchase with your Aetna extra benefits card, the store receipt shows your remaining balance after the transaction. If you keep your most recent receipt, you will always have a quick reference for how much you have left to spend that quarter.
How to Get Your Aetna OTC Card
Your Aetna extra benefits card is mailed to you automatically when your Medicare Advantage plan begins. It typically arrives in your welcome kit along with your insurance card, plan documents, and provider directory.
If you did not receive your card, or if it has been lost or damaged:
- Call Aetna Member Services at the number on your insurance card
- Request a replacement OTC card
- A new card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days
While waiting for a replacement card, ask the representative if you can order items online through aetna.com using your member ID instead of the physical card.
When Does the Aetna OTC Balance Reset?
The Aetna OTC benefit resets quarterly. The typical reset dates are:
- Q1: January 1
- Q2: April 1
- Q3: July 1
- Q4: October 1
Unused balance does not roll over. Any money left on your card at the end of each quarter is forfeited. This is one of the most common ways members lose money on their Medicare Advantage plan — they simply forget to use the benefit before it resets.
Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for one to two weeks before each reset date. This gives you enough time to check your balance and shop before the funds expire. For more tips on timing, see our guide on when Medicare Advantage OTC benefits reset.
How Much Is on My Card?
Most Aetna Medicare Advantage plans load between $25 and $150 per quarter onto your extra benefits card. The exact amount depends on your specific plan and the county where you live. Some plans offer more, especially in competitive markets.
That means over the course of a year, you could have $100 to $600 in free health product allowances. If you are not using this benefit, you are leaving real money on the table.
What Can I Buy With My Balance?
Your Aetna extra benefits card covers a wide range of health and wellness products, including:
- Blood pressure monitors, thermometers, and pulse oximeters
- Vitamins and supplements
- First aid supplies and wound care
- Dental care products
- Eye care items and reading glasses
- Pain relievers and cold medicine
- Compression socks
- Incontinence supplies
For the full details on what your card covers and where to shop, see our complete Aetna Medicare Advantage OTC benefit guide and our guide to stores that accept the Aetna card.
Official Medicare Resources
