Does TRICARE cover my family members?

TRICARE provides comprehensive coverage for eligible family members:

Eligible Family Members

Spouses • Legal spouse of active duty or retired service member • Same-sex spouses fully covered • Coverage continues if sponsor deployed • Must be registered in DEERS

Children • Biological children • Adopted children • Stepchildren • Foster children (with court order) • Coverage until age 21 (age 23 if full-time student)

Children with Disabilities • Coverage beyond age 21 if disability occurred before 21 • Must be incapable of self-support • Requires periodic certification

Young Adults (21-26) • TRICARE Young Adult program available • Purchase coverage separately • Available if not eligible for employer coverage

Other Dependents • Court-ordered dependent coverage may apply • Children of activated Guard/Reserve members • Dependent parents (very limited circumstances)

Coverage Levels

Active Duty Families • TRICARE Prime at no cost • Comprehensive preventive care • Minimal copays • Worldwide coverage

Retiree Families • Choice of Prime or Select • Enrollment fees apply • Family enrollment covers all eligible dependents • Cost-effective family coverage

What's Covered • Well-child visits and immunizations • Preventive care and screenings • Sick visits and emergency care • Mental health services • Prescription medications • Maternity and newborn care

Special Programs

ECHO (Extended Care Health Option) • Additional benefits for qualifying disabilities • Covers children and adults • Supplement to standard TRICARE

EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program) • Support for families with special needs • Helps with relocation and services • Coordinates with TRICARE

Adding Family Members • Register new dependents in DEERS within 30 days • Marriage, birth, adoption trigger enrollment periods • Provide supporting documentation

Coverage During Deployment • Family coverage continues • Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) may extend coverage • Special enrollment rules apply

Divorce/Separation • Coverage may continue under certain conditions • 20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rules apply • Must meet specific service requirements

Family coverage is one of TRICARE's greatest benefits, providing comprehensive care at affordable rates for all eligible dependents.