UnitedHealthcare offers a range of health and benefits cards, including the UCard, to help members manage their healthcare efficiently. To start using your UCard, visit activate.uhc.com to quickly activate your account and access your benefits. This simple activation process ensures you can easily manage claims, track balances, and maximize your healthcare perks.

Step 1: Activate Your Card

Before using your UCard, you must activate it.

How to activate:

  • Visit the UCard activation website or open the UnitedHealthcare mobile app

  • Sign in to your existing account or create one

  • Enter your card details and verify your identity

Step 2: Understand Your Benefits

Your UCard provides access to different types of credits, depending on your plan.

Common benefits include:

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) items

    • Vitamins

    • Pain relievers

    • First aid supplies

  • Healthy foods (if eligible)

    • Fruits and vegetables

    • Meat, dairy, and pantry staples

  • Utility bill payments

    • Electricity

    • Gas

    • Water

    • Internet

  • Rewards credits earned from healthy activities

  • Prescription access at pharmacies

  • Member ID for doctor visits and hospitals

Important 2026 Update

To use healthy food or utility credits in 2026, you must have a verified qualifying chronic condition, such as:

  • Diabetes

  • Heart disease

UnitedHealthcare has already verified about 95% of members automatically.
If verification is needed, they will contact you directly.

➡️ OTC credits do NOT require a chronic condition and remain available to all eligible members.

Step 3: Check Your Balance and Transactions

To keep track of your credits:

  • Log into the UCard Hub on the member website or app

  • View:

    • Available balances

    • Recent purchases

    • Credit expiration dates

⚠️ Credits often reset monthly or quarterly.

Step 4: Shop In-Store

  • Walmart

  • CVS

  • Walgreens

  • Many local grocery stores

How to shop in-store:

  1. Find participating stores using the app or UCard Hub

  2. Choose eligible items

  3. At checkout:

    • Swipe the card

    • Scan the barcode

    • Or show the digital card on your phone

Step 5: Shop Online

You can also use your credits online.

Steps:

  • Log into the UCard Hub via the website or app

  • Browse eligible categories (OTC or healthy food)

  • Add items to your cart

  • Pay using your available credits

Orders ship directly to your home.

Step 6: Pay Utility Bills (If Eligible)

If your plan includes utility benefits and your chronic condition is verified:

  • Go to the Bill Pay section in the UCard Hub

  • Add your utility provider

  • Enter your bill details

  • Apply your credits

Step 7: Use It for Healthcare Services

Your UCard also functions as your healthcare ID.

Use it to:

  • Check in at doctor offices or hospitals

  • Pick up prescriptions at pharmacies (if covered)

  • Access gym or fitness benefits, if included in your plan

Tips to Maximize Your UCard Benefits

  • Shop early in the month when credits reload

  • Track expiration dates in the app

  • Use the item scanner before buying

  • Keep the digital UCard saved on your phone

  • Plan grocery and OTC shopping together

Need Help or Support?

  • Log in to the UCard Hub for account support

  • Use the mobile app’s help or chat feature

  • Call Member Services using the number on the back of your UCard

  • Request a replacement card if lost or stolen

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a chronic condition for food or utility credits in 2026?

Yes. A verified qualifying chronic condition (such as diabetes or heart disease) is required for healthy food and utility credits.
OTC benefits are available without this requirement.

2. How do I check my UCard balance?

Log into the UCard Hub through the member website or UnitedHealthcare app.

3. What if my UCard is lost or stolen?

Request a replacement through your member account or app.
A digital card is usually available within 24 hours.

4. Can I use the UCard for copays or deductibles?

No. The UCard cannot be used for copays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket medical costs.

5. Where can I shop with my UCard?

At over 65,000 participating stores, including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and many local retailers. Use the store finder in the app.

Conclusion

The UnitedHealthcare UCard simplifies access to your Medicare Advantage benefits—serving as your member ID and a way to pay for eligible wellness items. Use the app and UCard Hub regularly to track credits and maximize your benefits.

Disclaimer: This website is not associated with activate.uhc.com or any other brand.We are an independent or third-party service provider providing support with our service packages. 

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