Does Your PMJAY Card Expire?
A common concern among Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries — does the PM-JAY card expire? Do you need to renew it every year? Here is the clear answer.
Card Validity
Your Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY card does not expire as long as your family remains eligible under the SECC database or your state’s expanded criteria. There is no annual renewal process like private health insurance. Once your card is generated, it remains valid indefinitely.
Annual Coverage Reset
While the card does not expire, the ₹5 lakh coverage resets every year. This means on the anniversary of your policy activation, your family’s balance goes back to ₹5 lakh — regardless of how much was used in the previous year. Unused amounts do not carry forward, and there is no bonus for not claiming.
When Your Card May Stop Working
Aadhaar deactivation: If your Aadhaar card is deactivated (due to non-use for extended periods), the biometric verification at PMJAY hospitals will fail. Keep your Aadhaar active by using it periodically.
SECC data update: If the government updates the SECC database and your family no longer meets the deprivation criteria, you may lose eligibility. This is rare but possible.
State scheme changes: Some states expand and contract their PM-JAY eligibility criteria. If your state reduces coverage, you may need to re-verify eligibility.
What to Do If Your Card Is Not Working
Visit the nearest CSC or call 14555. Common fixes include re-linking your mobile number, updating Aadhaar details, or re-generating the e-card through the ABHA app. The Ayushman Mitra at any empanelled hospital can also help troubleshoot card issues on the spot.
For finding hospitals, search PMJAY hospitals for surgery, heart treatment, orthopaedic care, or any specialty you need.
Disclaimer: PMJAYHospitals.com is an independent directory. For official information, visit pmjay.gov.in or call 14555.