The wraparound benefit
What Tricare for Life is — and isn't
TFL is not insurance you buy. It's a Medicare-wraparound benefit you've already earned through your service. Here is exactly how it works, straight from the 2026 TFL Handbook.
In one sentence
TFL is wraparound coverage that pays after Medicare for retired uniformed service members and qualifying family members age 65+.
You don't pay a TFL enrollment premium. You do have to be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B — that's the only ongoing cost to keep TFL active.
What TFL covers
Medical care
When you see a Medicare-participating doctor, Medicare pays first and TFL pays the remaining Medicare-allowed amount — typically leaving you with $0 owed for covered services.
Pharmacy
Prescriptions are filled through the TRICARE Pharmacy Program (Express Scripts) — at military pharmacies, retail network pharmacies, or by home delivery. Specialty drugs are dispensed through Accredo.
Care overseas
Medicare doesn't cover most care outside the U.S. and U.S. territories — but TFL acts as your primary payer overseas through the TRICARE Overseas Program (administered by International SOS).
Mental health
Inpatient and outpatient mental health care is covered. Medicare pays first; TFL covers most remaining costs at Medicare-participating providers.
The order of payment matters
Medicare
Pays first as your primary insurance for Medicare-covered services in the U.S.
Tricare for Life
Pays second — covers Medicare deductibles, coinsurance, and TRICARE-allowed amounts.
You
Typically owe $0 for services covered by both programs at Medicare-participating providers.
What TFL does NOT cover
Per the 2026 TFL Handbook, these services aren't covered by either Medicare or TFL — meaning you'd pay out of pocket or need separate coverage:
- Routine dental care (the TRICARE Dental Program is separate)
- Routine vision exams and eyeglasses
- Hearing aids (Medicare doesn't cover, TFL doesn't fill the gap)
- Long-term custodial care
- Most cosmetic procedures
- Care from a provider who has formally opted out of Medicare
If you drop Part B, you lose TFL.
TFL only works alongside active Medicare Part B coverage. There is no "TFL only" option. Keep your Part B premium current — it's automatically deducted from Social Security for most retirees.
Keep DEERS up to date
Your TFL eligibility is verified through the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System. Update DEERS any time you move, marry, divorce, or have a family change. Update online at milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil, by phone at 800-538-9552, or in person at any Uniformed Services ID card office.
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