Last week CMA issued a press release detailing issues some beneficiaries are having with “Flex Cards” issued by Medicare Advantage plans. These cards, similar to pre-loaded debit cards, have become an increasing popular enticement from MA plans. However, we have found that some public benefit administrators are counting the dollar amounts on Flex Cards in the income and asset calculations for benefits. Some of the public benefits affected include federal rental assistance, SNAP food assistance, PACE and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The story was picked up by Axios and McKnights Senior Living, among others.