Many UHC members worry about what happens if they do not use their UHC Card for a long time or miss using it during a benefit period.
Not using the card does not usually cause penalties, but it can affect unused benefits.
This guide explains what happens if you do not use your UHC Card, whether benefits expire, and what you should know to avoid losing eligible allowances.
No, it is not a problem if you do not use your UHC Card.
You will not:
Be penalized
Lose your health plan enrollment
Have your account canceled just for not using the card
However, unused benefits may be affected depending on your plan.
In many plans, unused benefits:
Expire at the end of the benefit period
Do not roll over to the next month or year
This is common for:
OTC benefits
Monthly or quarterly allowances
Unused amounts are usually forfeited once the period ends.
No.
Not using your UHC Card:
Does not cancel your health coverage
Does not affect plan eligibility
Does not impact future enrollment
Coverage is based on plan enrollment, not card usage.
If you never use the card:
Your plan remains active
Benefits remain available only during valid periods
Unused allowances may expire
Some members choose not to use optional benefits, which is allowed.
In most cases, no.
A UHC Card is not typically deactivated just because it is unused.
However:
Cards may expire and be replaced for a new plan year
Benefits reset according to plan schedules
Card status depends on plan rules, not usage frequency.
If benefits expire:
They usually cannot be recovered
They do not convert to cash
They cannot be transferred to another period
This is why checking benefit schedules is important.
Yes, it is recommended to activate your card even if you are unsure about usage.
Activation:
Ensures the card is ready if needed
Prevents delays later
Does not require you to use the card
Activation alone does not obligate you to spend benefits.
If you want to make use of your benefits:
Check your balance and benefit periods regularly
Review eligible items or services
Use benefits before the expiration date