TRICARE & Medicare
Military retirees and their families have special rules for Medicare. Here's what you need to know.
The Short Version
- When you turn 65, you must have Medicare Part B to keep TRICARE.
- TRICARE For Life becomes your coverage after you enroll in Medicare.
- Don't delay Part B enrollment — you'll lose TRICARE coverage.
TRICARE For Life (TFL)
Once you have Medicare Parts A and B, your TRICARE coverage automatically converts to TRICARE For Life:
- Medicare pays first
- TRICARE For Life pays most of what Medicare doesn't cover
- No enrollment needed — it's automatic once you have Parts A and B
- No monthly premium for TFL (you pay the Part B premium)
Critical: You Must Enroll in Part B
If you don't enroll in Medicare Part B when first eligible, you lose TRICARE.
This is different from other types of coverage. There is no exception for TRICARE beneficiaries.
CHAMPVA
If you have CHAMPVA (for families of disabled veterans):
- You must enroll in Medicare Part B when eligible (if entitled to Part A)
- CHAMPVA becomes secondary to Medicare
- CHAMPVA covers most costs that Medicare doesn't
What About Part D?
TRICARE For Life includes prescription drug coverage that's considered creditable. You generally don't need a separate Part D plan.
Action Steps
- Enroll in Medicare Part A — usually free, no reason not to
- Enroll in Medicare Part B — required to keep TRICARE
- Update DEERS with your Medicare information
- TFL coverage will begin automatically
Key Dates
Enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period:
- Starts 3 months before your 65th birthday
- Ends 3 months after your 65th birthday