Tricare For Life

Tricare For Life (TFL): Free Medicare Wraparound for Retirees 65+

Once a military retiree (or eligible family member) turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part A + Part B, Tricare For Life kicks in as automatic wraparound coverage at NO premium.

$200-$400
VeteranActive DutyRetiree
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Last checked: 2026-05-14

Details

Once a military retiree (or eligible family member) turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part A + Part B, Tricare For Life kicks in as automatic wraparound coverage at NO premium. Medicare pays first; Tricare For Life pays the Medicare deductible, coinsurance, and most Medicare cost-shares. Effectively zero-cost healthcare at 65+ for life, one of the most valuable retirement benefits in any retirement system.

Restrictions

Enroll in Medicare Part B at 65 to lock in TFL, late enrollment means a Part B premium surcharge for life. Part D pharmacy coverage NOT required; Tricare's pharmacy benefit (TRICARE Pharmacy via Express Scripts) is creditable. Use any Medicare-participating provider, no Tricare network restriction at the TFL layer. Massive value: comparable Medigap + Part D coverage runs $200-$400/month for civili

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