Yes, there are some Medicare Advantage plans where you can use a flex card or utility benefit to help pay for utilities. It is not a standard benefit, and its availability depends on your plan, location, and eligibility.
How it works
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a reloadable debit card (often called a flex card or utility card) that can be used for approved items and services. If your plan includes a utility allowance, you can load it onto the card to pay for bills such as electric, gas, water, sewer, internet, and cellular service.
Key points to know
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Not all plans include this benefit — it’s considered an “extra” or “essential extra” benefit and may vary by insurer, state, and plan type.
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Eligibility rules can change each year. For example, in 2026, some plans require verification of a qualifying chronic condition before you can use monthly OTC or utility credits.
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Usage limits apply — you can only spend the allowance on approved utilities, and the amount is usually a fixed quarterly or monthly credit.
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Verification may be needed — some plans require proof of a health-related reason for using the credit (e.g., for medical equipment, cooling, or heating needs).
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Not a Medicare-only benefit — the utility credit is part of the plan’s supplemental benefits, not standard Medicare coverage.
What to do next
Talk with your Medicare Agent. Your Agent will be able to confirm that there is an available plan in your area and if you meet the eligibility requirements to enroll in the plan. If you are enrolled in a plan currently, review your plan’s benefits booklet or contact your plan’s customer service to confirm:
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If your plan offers a utility benefit.
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The amount and frequency of the allowance.
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Any eligibility or verification requirements.
If you do not have a plan with this benefit, you may still be able to use other Medicare Advantage extras (like OTC or healthy food credits) for utilities, but you will need to meet the plan’s rules.
