What Happens If I Do Not Use My UHC Card?

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.

Is It a Problem If I Do Not Use My UHC Card?

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.

What Happens to Unused UHC Card Benefits?

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.

Does Not Using the Card Affect My Coverage?

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.

What If I Never Use My UHC Card at All?

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.

Can the Card Be Deactivated for Non-Use?

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.

What If I Forget to Use Benefits Before They Expire?

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.

Should I Still Activate My UHC Card If I Might Not Use It?

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.

How to Avoid Losing Benefits If You Plan to Use Them

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