How do I add a dependent to TRICARE?

Direct answer: The sponsor must first register the family member in DEERS at an ID card office, then enroll them in a TRICARE health plan through milConnect's Beneficiary Web Enrollment tool.

Applies to: All TRICARE plans · All regions

Details

Sponsors are automatically registered in DEERS, but must separately register eligible family members — only the sponsor can add or remove family members, and only at a local ID card office (call ahead or book online). Registering a family member requires a completed DD Form 1172 plus supporting documentation. Once DEERS registration is complete, enroll or withdraw the dependent from a TRICARE health plan via milConnect. You generally have 90 days stateside (120 days overseas) from a qualifying life event to make DEERS/TRICARE changes.

What to do next

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