Many Texas Seniors on Medicare May Be Missing Out on Monthly Extra Benefits

Some Medicare Advantage plans available in Texas may include extra benefits — like a grocery allowance, Part B give-back, dental coverage, and prescription savings — yet many members never know to ask. Here's how to check what you may qualify for.

Across Texas, many people enrolled in Medicare may be leaving valuable plan benefits unused — not because they don't need them, but simply because no one ever told them to look.

Depending on the plan and where you live, some Medicare Advantage plans may include extra benefits such as:

• A monthly grocery / healthy-food allowance (for members who qualify — see note below)
• A Part B give-back that may reduce your monthly Medicare Part B premium
• Comprehensive dental, vision, and hearing coverage
• Prescription drug savings
• A monthly over-the-counter (OTC) allowance for everyday health items

A note on grocery and food allowances: these are generally available only to members who meet specific eligibility requirements — for example, having a qualifying chronic health condition, or also being enrolled in Medicaid. A licensed agent can tell you whether you may or may not qualify.

Here's the bigger point: benefits vary by plan and by county, and plans change every year. A benefit available on one plan may not be on another — and a benefit you had last year might not carry over. Many members simply don't realize what their current plan includes, or what other plans in their area may offer.

Who may be able to check?

If you're a Texas resident enrolled in Medicare — or becoming eligible soon — a licensed insurance agent can review the Medicare Advantage plans available in your area and explain what benefits, if any, you may qualify for. There is no cost and no obligation to enroll.

Because plan availability and benefits change each year and differ by location, the only way to know what you may qualify for is to review the plans offered in your specific area. A quick, no-cost call with a licensed agent can walk you through it.