Yes, you can use your Health Pays Rewards Card to buy certain types of groceries at participating retailers—but there are a few important rules to follow. Let’s break it down in a simple way so you know exactly what you can and cannot do.
What Is a Health Pays Rewards Card?
A Health Pays Rewards Card is a prepaid rewards card offered by some Medicaid or health insurance plans, such as Ambetter or other state-managed health programs. The idea behind this card is to reward you for staying healthy and completing certain health-related activities. These might include getting your annual physical, completing a health survey, attending a wellness class, or even getting your flu shot.
Every time you complete an activity, you earn a specific dollar amount. These rewards are then loaded onto your Health Pays card, which works much like a Visa® or MasterCard® prepaid debit card—but with limits on where and how it can be used.
These cards are not the same as EBT or SNAP benefits, and they are not accepted everywhere. But depending on the program and where you shop, you may be able to use the card to buy healthy groceries, over-the-counter items, and other wellness-related goods.
Can I Really Buy Groceries With It?
Yes, in many cases, you can buy groceries with your Health Pays Rewards Card—but only certain types of groceries and only at certain stores. The card is designed to support healthy lifestyle choices, so the kinds of items you can purchase are usually nutritional or health-focused.
For example, if you go to Walmart, Kroger, CVS, or other participating stores, your card might work for items like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and more. But it won’t work for things like alcohol, candy, soda, or fast food.
Different health plans may have different rules. Some might allow more flexible spending, while others have strict guidelines. That’s why it’s always important to check with your specific insurance provider or login to your My Health Pays Rewards account to get exact information about eligible items.
What Kind of Groceries Can I Buy?
Not all food is treated equally when it comes to the Health Pays Rewards Card. Because the card promotes healthy eating, your shopping choices must follow that principle. Think of it like a nutrition coach inside your wallet—it will only “approve” your good decisions.
Good Foods You Can Buy
Here’s a list of healthy grocery items that are often covered:
- Fresh fruits (apples, bananas, oranges)
- Fresh vegetables (carrots, spinach, broccoli)
- Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat bread, oats)
- Lean proteins (chicken, turkey, fish)
- Low-fat dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Eggs
- Canned vegetables with low sodium
- Frozen fruits and vegetables (no added sugar or sauces)
- Baby food and baby formula
- Bottled water or 100% fruit juice (limited)
These foods support your overall health and align with most Medicaid program goals.
Foods You Might Not Be Able to Buy
Not all food items are considered healthy or allowed. Here are examples of what might not be approved:
- Soda or sugary drinks
- Candy and chocolate
- Chips and processed snacks
- Cakes, cookies, or donuts
- Fried or fast food
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Energy drinks
- Ice cream
- Pre-made meals with high fat/sugar
If you try to buy any of these, the transaction might get declined at checkout.
Always Check the Rules First
Before you shop, make sure you check your Health Pays Rewards Guide or the program’s official website. Look for the list of approved items and stores. Some cards will only work for groceries at specific stores, while others might also work for OTC medications, hygiene products, or even transportation services.
Logging into your My Health Pays Rewards account can give you personalized information about your rewards, card balance, and spending guidelines.
Where Can I Use My Health Pays Card?
Your Health Pays Card can only be used at specific retailers and stores that are authorized to accept it. This varies depending on the insurance provider and the network they use (such as MasterCard prepaid systems).
Here are some common stores where the card is usually accepted:
- Walmart
- Kroger
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Dollar General
- Food Lion
- Safeway
- Rite Aid
- Albertsons
- Target (select locations)
Some cards even allow you to shop online at Walmart.com for approved items.
To avoid problems, you should check the “where to use” section in your health insurance portal. Not all locations will accept the card—even within big chains—so double-check before you go shopping.
How to Use the Card at Checkout
Using your Health Pays Rewards Card at checkout is pretty straightforward, but here are some helpful tips:
- Shop for eligible items only.
- At the register, swipe the card like a regular debit card.
- Select “credit” if prompted (no PIN usually required).
- If the total is more than your card balance, you may need to split the payment.
- Always keep your receipt, in case you need to check which items were approved or declined.
Some stores may ask for ID, while others won’t. If the transaction fails, don’t worry—we’ll cover what to do next.
What Happens If It Doesn’t Work?
Sometimes, your card might not work. Don’t panic! There are a few common reasons why your Health Pays Rewards Card could be declined or rejected.
Common Problems and Fixes
- You tried to buy ineligible items: If your cart contains items that don’t qualify (like soda or candy), the card won’t go through.
- Fix: Remove those items and try again.
- The store doesn’t accept the card: Even if it’s a big store, not every location supports prepaid rewards cards.
- Fix: Call your card’s customer service or check your provider’s store locator.
- Insufficient balance on your card: If your purchase is more than what’s on your card, it may be declined.
- Fix: Ask the cashier to split the payment between your card and another method.
- Technical issues with the store’s system: Sometimes, the payment system doesn’t recognize the card correctly.
- Fix: Try another checkout lane or come back later.
How to Check Your Card Balance
Keeping track of your card balance is very important. There are a few ways to check:
- Log in online: Visit your My Health Pays Rewards portal.
- Call the number on the back of your card: Automated voice systems can tell you your balance.
- Check the receipt: Some stores print your remaining balance at the bottom.
Knowing your balance before you shop saves you time and stress at the register.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Card
Want to get the most value out of your Health Pays card? Here’s how:
- Use it for healthy groceries first: Stock up on fruits, vegetables, and staples.
- Track your rewards online: Know when new funds are added after doctor visits or health activities.
- Combine it with coupons and sales: Stretch your reward dollars even further.
- Use at participating pharmacies: Buy OTC medicine, vitamins, or first-aid supplies if groceries are limited.
- Ask customer service for help: Stores like Walmart can tell you which items are eligible.
- Don’t let your balance expire: Some cards reset every month or year—use it before it’s gone.
Thoughts: Is the Card Helpful?
Yes, the Health Pays Rewards Card is a very helpful tool, especially for families and individuals on Medicaid or health plans that reward healthy habits. It’s more than just a card—it’s a reminder to stay proactive about your health. Whether you’re buying healthy groceries, picking up vitamins, or getting baby supplies, it helps ease your budget a little at a time.
The key is understanding how it works, where to use it, and what to avoid. That way, you won’t run into surprises at the checkout counter.
The Bottom Line
To answer the question once and for all: Yes, you can buy groceries with your Health Pays Rewards Card—as long as those groceries are healthy and eligible under your plan’s rules. Stick to fresh produce, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean meats, and shop at approved stores like Walmart, CVS, or Kroger.
Always check your card balance, review your eligible items list, and plan your shopping trip ahead of time. Use the card wisely, and it can make your grocery shopping easier, healthier, and more affordable.
Remember: the Health Pays Rewards program is designed to reward your healthy choices. So keep making smart moves for your body—and your wallet will thank you, too.
