Step-by-Step UHC Activation for New Members

If you’re a new UnitedHealthcare (UHC) member, one of the first things you’ll want to do is activate your card. Activation ensures your membership is live, your benefits are available, and you can access the tools you need to manage your healthcare.

Whether you’re using a standard UHC Member ID card or a UCard (which includes over-the-counter [OTC] credits, healthy food benefits, and more), the activation process is quick and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Why Activation Is Important

Your UHC card is the key to unlocking your benefits. Without activation, you may not be able to:

• Use your card at doctor’s offices or pharmacies.
  
  

• Access OTC and healthy food benefits linked to your UCard.
  
  

• Log in to myuhc.com or the UHC mobile app to view claims and plan details.
  
  

• Protect your account against unauthorized use.
  
  

Step 1: Gather What You Need

Before starting, make sure you have:

• Your UHC card with Member ID number.
  
  

• Your date of birth and sometimes the last 4 digits of your SSN.
  
  

• A valid email or phone number for verification.
  
  

• Internet or phone access.
  
  

Step 2: Activate Your UHC Card Online

1. Visit activate.uhc.com.
   
   

2. Enter your card number and required personal information.
   
   

3. Follow the on-screen prompts to verify your identity.
   
   

4. Submit, and your card will be activated within minutes.
   
   

👉 Online activation is the fastest and most reliable method for new members.

Step 3: Set Up Your UHC Account

After activation, register your account at myuhc.com or through the UnitedHealthcare app.

• Select “Register Now”.
  
  

• Enter your Member ID, date of birth, and ZIP code.
  
  

• Create a username, password, and security questions.
  
  

• Verify your account with a code sent to your email or phone.
  
  

With your account set up, you can:

• View a digital version of your card.
  
  

• Track claims and benefits.
  
  

• Check your balances for OTC and healthy food credits.
  
  

• Find doctors, pharmacies, and other providers.
  
  

Step 4: Activate by Alternative Methods (Optional)

If you don’t want to activate online, you can:

• Use the UHC Mobile App
  
  

  • Download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
    
    

  • Sign in or register your account.
    
    

  • Go to the Activate Card section and scan your card or enter the details manually.
    
    

• Call by Phone
  
  

  • Dial the activation number printed on the back of your card.
    
    

  • Enter your Member ID and personal details.
    
    

  • Follow the prompts to complete activation.
    
    

Step 5: Start Using Your Benefits

Once your card is active, you’re ready to:

• Show your card at doctor’s visits and pharmacies.
  
  

• Use your UCard at approved retailers for eligible OTC or food items.
  
  

• Manage your account online for claims, balances, and digital tools.
  
  

• Explore extra benefits like fitness programs, telehealth, or discounts.
  
  

Troubleshooting Tips

• Card not recognized? Double-check your Member ID and try again.
  
  

• Website issues? Switch to another browser or device.
  
  

• OTC/UCard not working at checkout? Make sure the item is eligible and your benefit balance is loaded.
  
  

• Still stuck? Call the member services number on the back of your card for support.
  
  

Final Thoughts

For new members, UHC activation is the essential first step in getting the most out of your health plan. By activating your card at activate.uhc.com, setting up your myUHC.com account, and using the mobile app, you’ll unlock easy access to care, prescriptions, and the extra benefits that come with your plan.

Start today and enjoy the confidence of knowing your healthcare benefits are active and ready whenever you need them.