NEW MILITARY RETIREMENT HEALTH BENEFIT: TRICARE FOR LIFE

TRICARE for Life (TFL) started October 1, 2001 and provides expanded medical coverage for: Medicare-eligible military retirees, including retired guard members and reservists; Medicare-eligible family members and widow/widowers; and certain former spouses if they were eligible for TRICARE before age 65. Participation in Medicare Part A and B is mandatory to be eligible for TFL.Coverage is automatic if you have Medicare Part A and B- there is no need to enroll.

You may visit any authorized provider. Find a doctor here. Your provider files your claims with Medicare. Medicare pays its portion and sends the claim to the TRICARE For Life claims processor. TRICARE For Life then pays the provider directly for TRICARE-covered services. You don't pay any enrollment fees, but you must pay Medicare Part B monthly premiums. Your Part B premium is based on your income.

Those enrolled in TFL may continue to receive care in Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) if desired and a program called TRICARE Plus allows some beneficiaries (certain groups are excluded) to enroll for primary care at MTFs where capacity allows.

From: www.Medicare.gov and https://tricare.mil/tfl

Rev 4/19