Does a VA disability rating give me TRICARE?

Direct answer: No, not by itself — the VA and TRICARE are separate programs, and a VA disability rating alone doesn't make you TRICARE-eligible.

Applies to: All TRICARE plans · All regions

Details

TRICARE eligibility generally requires being a military retiree (typically 20+ years of service) or being medically retired through the DoD’s own Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) with a rating of 30% or higher — a separate process from the VA’s rating. A veteran who separated before qualifying for retirement usually isn’t TRICARE-eligible even with a 100% VA disability rating. Check your actual status in DEERS via milConnect, or call the DMDC/DEERS Support Office.

What to do next

Confirm this with your Primary Care Manager or regional contractor before scheduling — rules can vary by region and by service.