Your member ID card

What you need to know about using your card

When you sign up for health insurance, your health plan will send a member identification (ID) card to you and your covered family members. Your member ID card (or health plan ID card) is proof that you have health insurance. Health care providers use the information from your member ID card to confirm they are part of your plan’s network and to bill your health plan for your care. Some plans have mobile apps that let you share the member ID card on your smartphone or tablet. Keep your member ID card handy when you:

  • Go to the doctor
  • Go to the hospital
  • Have lab work done
  • Get a prescription filled (if your plan has drug coverage)

Sign in to get a digital member ID card

Member ID card available on the UnitedHealthcare app

UnitedHealthcare® members with plans through an employer may use the UnitedHealthcare app to view and show their member ID card on their smartphone or tablet.

Use your mobile device to download the app

Download the app

Request a new member ID card

If your card is damaged, or if you find a mistake on your member ID card, call the number on your card to request a new card. If you have lost your member ID card, contact us.

Examples of information found on member ID cards

Here are some examples of UnitedHealthcare member ID cards. Your member ID card may vary depending on your specific health plan and coverage.

Your member ID number and group number allow healthcare providers to verify your coverage and file claims for health care services. These numbers also help UnitedHealthcare advocates answer questions about your benefits and claims.

  • Member ID number: A unique member ID number that links to your specific health insurance benefits and coverage.
  • Group number: This number is unique to your company and is the same for all employees who participate in the insurance plan.
  • Member/dependents: Your name (if you’re the policyholder) and other family members covered under your health plan.
  • PCP: Primary Care Provider. Some plans require members to choose a primary care provider (PCP). If required, your PCP will be listed on your member ID card. A PCP is your main point of contact for most health issues or concerns. It can be a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or physician assistant.
  • Copay: If your plan has copays, the copay for certain services may be listed on your member ID card. Your copay is the fixed amount you pay for certain covered health care services. It is usually paid when you receive the service.
  • Your network: Before selecting a primary care provider (PCP), check that they are in your plan network. You can call the service number on your member ID card, or sign in to your health plan account and search the provider directory.
  • Referrals required: If this appears on your card, check your benefit plan documents to see which services may require a referral (or recommendation) from your PCP for medical care beyond what your PCP can provide.
  • Pharmacy benefits: If your plan includes pharmacy benefits from OptumRx®, your member ID card lists the numbers your pharmacy will need to verify your insurance coverage when filling prescriptions.

The back of your UCard includes contact information for providers and pharmacists to submit claims. It also includes the member website and health plan phone number, where you can check benefits, view claims, find a doctor, ask questions and more.

Preventing medical identity theft

Unfortunately, new health care fraud and abuse schemes are constantly occurring. Thankfully, they are also regularly uncovered. You can help protect yourself and your family by staying informed.

Consider these tips to help safeguard your personal information:

  • Treat your member ID card as you would a credit card
  • Never provide personal information, such as your member ID number, credit or debit card number (or other personal information) on a phone call you did not initiate
  • Do not let anyone except your physician’s office or pharmacy handle your member ID card. If anyone else requests your personal information, do not provide it.
  • Never accept “free” medical equipment or services in exchange for your member ID number
  • Shred financial documents before discarding
  • Monitor your financial accounts regularly