Many UHC members notice an expiration date printed on their card and wonder what it means.
Seeing an expiration date can be confusing, especially if you are unsure whether your benefits will stop.
This guide explains whether a UHC Card expires, what the expiration date actually means, and what you should do when your card reaches that date.
Yes, the physical UHC Card does have an expiration date printed on it.
However, card expiration does not always mean your health coverage or benefits have ended.
In most cases, the expiration date is linked to a plan year or card reissue cycle.
The expiration date usually indicates:
The end of a plan year
A scheduled card replacement
A benefit cycle update
If your health plan renews, a new card is typically issued automatically.
UHC Cards are issued under plans managed by UnitedHealthcare.
In most cases, no.
If:
Your plan renews
Your enrollment remains active
Then your benefits usually continue without interruption, even if the old card expires.
You will simply need to use the new card.
When your card expires:
The old card may stop working
Transactions may be declined
You may need the new card for purchases or verification
A replacement card is usually mailed automatically before or shortly after expiration.
Usually, no.
Most members:
Receive a new card automatically for the new plan year
Do not need to take action unless the card does not arrive
If you do not receive a new card, you can request a replacement.
Generally, no.
An expired card:
May not be accepted at stores
May not work for benefit access
Should not be used once a new card is issued
Always switch to the new card when received.
If your plan did not renew:
Benefits may have ended
The expired card will no longer work
No replacement card will be issued
Coverage status depends on your plan enrollment.
If your card expired and no new card arrived:
Check your plan renewal status
Confirm your mailing address
Request a replacement card if needed
Eligible members are entitled to receive a current card.
UHC Cards do have expiration dates
Card expiration does not always mean coverage ended
New cards are often issued automatically
Expired cards should not be used
Understanding this helps avoid confusion and declined transactions.
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