10/28/2025
Don't forget to call your insurance plan to see if you have this food benefit!
Medicare Advantage plans with a grocery allowance, often called a food benefit, are typically available through specific Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNP) and Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) offered by insurers like Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Anthem. These benefits provide funds via a pre-paid debit card to purchase eligible healthy foods, though the specific rules, allowances, and participating retailers vary by plan.
How grocery allowances work
Eligibility: Grocery allowances are usually a special supplemental benefit for members with specific health conditions, making them available through certain Medicare Advantage plans, particularly C-SNPs and D-SNPs.
Benefit amount: The amount varies by plan and can range from about $50 to over $200 per month.
How to use: Funds are loaded onto a pre-paid debit card, sometimes called a "flex card".
Spending limits: In most cases, the allowance must be spent on qualifying items like fresh produce, pantry staples, and meat. The funds typically reset each month and do not roll over.
Insurers that may offer a grocery allowance
Humana: Offers a "Healthy Options Allowance" that can be used for groceries and other approved items.
UnitedHealthcare: Provides a "Healthy Food Benefit" card through some plans for eligible members.
Aetna: Has a food benefit that is included in many of their Medicare Advantage plans.
Anthem: Offers a "Benefits Prepaid Card" that can be used for groceries, over-the-counter items, and utilities in some plans.
Important considerations
Not a guarantee: This is an extra benefit, not a standard feature on all Medicare Advantage plans. Availability and specific rules depend on your plan and location.