TRICARE for Life Eligibility: Who Qualifies and How It Works
TRICARE for Life (TFL) is extra coverage that works with Medicare to help military retirees and their families avoid out-of-pocket costs. Many veterans have heard of it, but aren’t sure who qualifies or how it works. Here’s the quick breakdown.
What Is TRICARE for Life?
TFL is secondary insurance for TRICARE-eligible people who also have Medicare Parts A and B.
Medicare pays first; TFL usually covers the rest if the service is covered by both.
No sign-up forms, no extra fees—coverage starts automatically once you have both Medicare Parts A and B.
It’s an individual benefit—if you qualify, you can use TFL even if your spouse or dependents are still on TRICARE Prime or Select.
Who’s Eligible?
Most people get Medicare at age 65.
You might get it earlier if you have certain health conditions or receive Social Security disability benefits.
To use TFL, you must:
Be eligible for TRICARE (usually as a military retiree or eligible family member)
Be enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical)
You don’t need Medicare Part C (Advantage) or Part D (prescriptions) for TFL.
How to Get Covered
TFL starts the same day your Medicare Parts A and B begin.
Sign up for Medicare at least 2 months before your 65th birthday to avoid coverage gaps.
Enroll online through the Social Security Administration or set up an appointment.
Keep your DEERS record updated so TRICARE knows you’re eligible.
Important Notes
Medicare Part A is usually free if you or your spouse worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years.
Medicare Part B has a monthly premium based on income.
If you choose a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or a Part D drug plan, TFL will still work—but your benefits may coordinate differently.
Resources
https://tricare.mil/tfl
https://tricare.mil/Publications/Handbooks/tricare_for_life
https://tricare.mil/Plans/Eligibility/MedicareEligible
https://tricare.mil/FAQs/TFL/TFL_Eligibility
https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/Federal-Benefits/TRICARE-For-Life-%28TFL%29?serv=128
https://www.jbsa.mil/News/News/Article/3619247/qa-how-does-tricare-for-life-work-with-medicare/
