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How does employer health insurance work with TRICARE?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
You can have both employer insurance and TRICARE. TRICARE becomes secondary payer, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
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Key Takeaways
- Can have both
- Employer pays first
- TRICARE secondary
- May reduce costs
Detailed Answer
Having employer insurance with TRICARE creates coordination.
Dual Coverage
- Both can be active
- Employer usually primary
- TRICARE becomes secondary
- May reduce your costs
How It Works
- Employer pays first
- TRICARE covers remainder
- Up to TRICARE-allowable amount
- Minimal out-of-pocket possible
Who Benefits
- Retirees with jobs
- Military spouses working
- Part-time employment
- Family members with jobs
Costs
- Employer premium applies
- TRICARE costs still apply
- May save overall
- Compare total costs
Filing Claims
- Employer plan pays first
- TRICARE processes after
- Automatic for network
- May need to file manually
Related TRICARE Terms
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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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