How do I add a Medicare card to my Walmart account?

According to a May 2025 announcement, millions of Medicare Advantage members can now add their benefit cards to their Walmart accounts to better utilize supplemental benefits. This guide will explain how to add a Medicare card to your Walmart account, so you can easily access funds for over-the-counter (OTC) items, healthy foods, and more.

Quick Summary

You can add your Medicare Advantage or OTC benefit card to your Walmart digital wallet by navigating to the 'Wallet' section of your account online or in the app. This feature, available for eligible plans, allows you to save your card details for easy checkout and use your benefits on qualifying items seamlessly.

Key Points

• Use the correct card: Only Medicare Advantage benefit cards (e.g., UCard, NationsBenefits card), not your standard red, white, and blue Medicare ID, can be added.

• Navigate to the Wallet: The process for adding the card involves accessing the 'Wallet' section of your Walmart account, either on Walmart.com or in the app.

• Select 'Benefit card': When adding a new payment method, be sure to choose the 'Benefit card' option to ensure proper handling of your funds.

• Look for eligibility badges: Once linked, your account will help you identify qualifying OTC, food, and wellness products with a 'benefits program eligible' badge.

• Check your balance: To avoid confusion, always track your remaining balance via the Walmart benefits tracker or your plan provider's website/app.

Understanding the Card: Benefit vs. Standard Medicare

First, it is critical to clarify that you do not add your standard red, white, and blue Medicare ID card to a Walmart account. That card is for medical services, not retail purchases. Instead, this process applies to supplemental benefit cards issued by Medicare Advantage plans. These cards, such as a UnitedHealthcare UCard or a NationsBenefits card, function similarly to a prepaid debit card and are loaded with funds for specific health-related purchases like OTC items, healthy foods, and other wellness products.

Adding Your Benefit Card via Walmart.com

Adding your benefit card online is a straightforward process that makes using your benefits simple. You will need to be logged into your Walmart account before beginning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Go to Walmart.com/wallet: Navigate directly to the wallet page in your browser.
2. Access Your Account: Sign in if prompted. If you do not have a Walmart account, you will need to create one first.
3. Find the Wallet: Click on your account name in the top right corner, then select Wallet from the dropdown menu.
4. Add a New Payment Method: Scroll down and choose the option to Add new payment method.
5. Select Benefit Card: From the list of payment types, select Benefit card.
6. Enter Card Details: Input the required information from your benefit card, including the card number and any other specific details, and then click Save Card.

Adding Your Benefit Card Using the Walmart App

The process is similar for users who prefer the convenience of the Walmart app on their smartphone or tablet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Walmart App: Ensure you have the latest version of the app installed on your device.
2. Navigate to Account: Tap the Account icon, usually located at the bottom right of the screen.
3. Access Settings: Tap the Settings gear icon in the top right corner.
4. Open Wallet: Select the Wallet option.
5. Add Payment Method: Scroll down and select Add new payment method, then choose Benefit card.
6. Complete the Process: Enter your benefit card information and save it to your account.

How to Find and Use Eligible Products

Once your card is linked, Walmart's systems can recognize it and show you which products are eligible under your plan. This digital integration is a key feature rolled out by Walmart to help Medicare Advantage members utilize their benefits.

When shopping online:

• Look for a “benefits program eligible” badge on product pages.
• Use the Benefits Program filter when browsing or searching for items.

When shopping in-store:

• Use the Walmart app to scan a product's barcode to see if it's eligible.

Comparison of Online vs. In-Store Benefit Use

Feature	Online Purchase	In-Store Purchase
Finding Eligible Items	Look for “benefits program eligible” badge or use search filters.	Use the Walmart app's scanner on a product's barcode.
Payment Method	Select your saved benefit card from your digital wallet during online checkout.	Swipe your physical benefit card at the register.
Transaction Details	Your basket will show how much is covered by your benefit card.	The point-of-sale system recognizes your card and applies the benefit automatically.
Troubleshooting	Requires the digital card to be saved properly. Issues may arise with app vs. browser usage.	Fewer technical issues related to adding the card, assuming the physical card is active.

Maximizing Your Supplemental Benefits

Many people on Medicare Advantage plans leave billions of dollars in benefits unclaimed each year. Adding your benefit card to your Walmart account is an effective way to stay on top of your spending and take full advantage of your plan's offerings. By integrating your card with your account, you unlock a customized shopping experience that makes finding and purchasing eligible items far more convenient. Always remember to also track your remaining balance through your plan's resources to ensure you use your funds before they expire.

For more detailed information on specific benefit card types, you may want to consult your plan provider or visit the official Walmart Help Center regarding OTC benefits: https://www.walmart.com/help/article/shop-with-your-otc-benefit-card/2de8d31bb32346e0bce2832d0106c716.

Conclusion

While a standard Medicare card cannot be added to a Walmart account, linking your Medicare Advantage benefit card is a simple and effective way to access valuable supplemental funds. By following the steps to add the card to your online wallet, you can streamline your shopping and ensure you utilize your benefits for the health and wellness products you need. This integration empowers seniors to make the most of their health plan features, both online and in-store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add my traditional red, white, and blue Medicare card to my Walmart account?

No, the standard Medicare ID card is for medical services, not for retail purchases. You can only add supplemental benefit cards from a Medicare Advantage plan.

What kind of items can I purchase with my benefit card at Walmart?

The specific items covered depend on your plan, but they typically include over-the-counter medications, personal care items, and healthy foods. You can find eligible products by looking for the 'benefits program eligible' badge online or by scanning in-store.

How do I find eligible items on the Walmart app?

In the app, you can scan a product's barcode to see if it's covered by your benefits. You can also use search filters for 'Benefits programs' when shopping online.

What if my purchase exceeds the amount on my benefit card?

If your total exceeds your available balance, you will need to pay the remaining amount with a secondary payment method, such as a debit or credit card.

Can I add my benefit card using a computer instead of the app?

Yes, you can add your benefit card by logging into your Walmart account on Walmart.com and navigating to the 'Wallet' section to add a new 'Benefit card' payment method.

How can I track my remaining benefit funds?

You can often track your balance through a benefits tracker on Walmart.com or in the app. For the most accurate information, however, you should always check your health plan provider's website or app.

I'm having trouble adding my card online. What should I do?

If you experience issues, try using a web browser instead of the app, as some users report better success. If the problem persists, contact your Medicare Advantage plan provider for support.