Hello SoCalDana
Firstly, welcome to the SBB Community.
You mix up the Swiss Half Fare Card for toutrists, and the Half Fare Card, for residents.
The red plastic card is available for the resident version only.
Your Swiss Half Fare Card is like a ticket with a QR code. You must make the necessary settings yourself as part of the passenger details before purchasing a ticket. There should be a purchase confirmation e-mail with your Swiss Half Fare Card.
https://community.sbb.ch/d/26418-how-can-i-save-the-info-of-swiss-half-fare-card
Kind regards,
Roland