Step A
Are you eligible for Tricare for Life?
Tricare for Life (TFL) is the wraparound coverage that begins when retired military and qualifying family members reach age 65 and enroll in Medicare.
Who qualifies
You are typically eligible for Tricare for Life if you check all of the following boxes:
Retired uniformed service member
You retired from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, or activated Reserve/Guard with a qualifying retirement.
Age 65 or older
TFL begins the first day of the month you turn 65 (or earlier if you qualify for Medicare due to disability).
Enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B
You must have BOTH Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical). Without Part B, your TFL coverage will not be active.
Listed in DEERS
Your information must be current in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System.
Spouses and family beneficiaries
Your spouse is also eligible for Tricare for Life when they turn 65, provided they are listed as a beneficiary in DEERS and enroll in Medicare Parts A and B. Eligibility for a spouse is independent of yours — your spouse's TFL begins when they turn 65, not when you do. Qualifying survivors and certain former spouses may also be eligible.
Confirmed you're eligible? Continue to Step B.
Medicare Parts A & BNo-cost broker service
Speak with a licensed broker who specializes in veterans
Uncle Sam's Healthcare helps retired military find $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans. There is never a fee for this service.