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What happens to TRICARE coverage after divorce?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
Former spouses lose TRICARE eligibility upon divorce unless they meet 20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rule requirements for continued coverage.
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Key Takeaways
- Most former spouses lose coverage
- 20/20/20 rule allows continued
- Children unaffected
- Update DEERS required
Detailed Answer
Divorce affects TRICARE eligibility for former spouses.
General Rule
- Former spouses lose TRICARE
- Coverage ends at divorce
- Must find other coverage
- Children still eligible
20/20/20 Rule
- 20 years military service
- 20 years of marriage
- 20 years overlap
- Full TRICARE for life
20/20/15 Rule
- 20 years service
- 20 years marriage
- 15 years overlap
- 1 year transitional coverage
Children
- Remain eligible until 21/23/26
- Based on unmarried status
- Student or other criteria
- Unaffected by divorce
Action Steps
- Check date eligibility
- Update DEERS promptly
- Research alternatives
- Coordinate with attorney
Sponsored
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Most Popular
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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