How to Surrender CGHS Card: Step-by-Step Guide

Surrendering a CGHS card is required when a beneficiary is no longer eligible for benefits under the Central Government Health Scheme or opts out voluntarily. This usually arises at the time of retirement (if not continuing CGHS), resignation, permanent migration to a non-CGHS city, or in the event of the death of the cardholder.

Here is a simple and updated guide explaining when and how to surrender a CGHS card, and what happens after submission.

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When Is CGHS Card Surrender Required?

A CGHS card must be surrendered in the following situations:

• Retirement, if the employee does not opt for CGHS as a pensioner
• Resignation or dismissal from service
• Permanent transfer to a non-CGHS covered city
• Switching permanently to another medical scheme
• Death of the main CGHS cardholder

Failure to surrender the card may lead to recovery of medical expenses or issues in service/pension records.

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Documents Required for Surrender of CGHS Card

Keep the following ready before submission:

• Original CGHS plastic card(s) – main card and dependent cards
• Surrender application / letter (simple written request is sufficient)
• Copy of retirement order / resignation acceptance / death certificate (as applicable)
• Photo ID proof of the applicant (recommended)

Step-by-Step: How to Surrender CGHS Card

Step 1: Prepare a Written Application

Write a brief application addressed to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of your CGHS Wellness Centre. Mention:

• Name of cardholder
• CGHS Card Number
• Reason for surrender
• Date from which CGHS facility is no longer required

Step 2: Visit the Concerned CGHS Wellness Centre

Visit the CGHS Wellness Centre where the card is registered. Carry:

• Original CGHS cards
• Application letter
• Supporting documents

In case of death of the cardholder, a family member can submit the request.

Step 3: Submit the CGHS Card(s)

Hand over all physical CGHS cards to the CGHS staff. They will verify the details and accept the surrender.

Step 4: Obtain Acknowledgement

Request an acknowledgement or receipt confirming surrender of the CGHS card. This document is important for:

• Service record closure
• Pension processing
• Avoiding future liability

Is Online CGHS Card Surrender Available?

At present, CGHS card surrender is not fully online. Physical submission of the card at the Wellness Centre is mandatory because the plastic card has to be returned.

However, some centres may allow prior intimation by email, followed by physical submission. Beneficiaries are advised to check locally.

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Important Points to Remember

• Medical benefits stop immediately after surrender
• Pending medical bills must be cleared before surrender
• Keep the acknowledgement safely for future reference
• If you plan to re-join CGHS later (e.g., as a pensioner), a fresh application will be required

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can CGHS card be surrendered by a family member?
Yes. In case of death or inability of the cardholder, an authorized family member can surrender the card.

Is surrender mandatory after retirement?
Only if the pensioner does not opt to continue CGHS. Otherwise, the card is converted instead of surrendered.

What happens if CGHS card is not surrendered?
Non-surrender may lead to recovery of medical expenses or objections during pension settlement.

In Short

Surrendering a CGHS card is a simple but essential compliance step. A written application, submission of the physical card, and collecting acknowledgement are the key actions involved. Completing this process on time avoids administrative complications later.