How to use TRICARE after retirement?

Using TRICARE after military retirement involves a transition from active duty coverage to retiree coverage. Within 90 days of your retirement date (which is a qualifying life event), you should enroll in either TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select through your regional contractor. As a retiree, you will pay annual enrollment fees and cost-shares that are higher than active duty rates but typically much lower than civilian insurance. Update your DEERS record to reflect your retired status and obtain your retired military ID card. Familiarize yourself with the cost differences between Prime and Select for retirees, and choose the plan that best fits your healthcare needs and location. When you turn 65, you must enroll in Medicare Parts A and B to maintain your TRICARE eligibility. Once enrolled in Medicare, you automatically receive TRICARE For Life (TFL), which acts as a Medicare supplement and provides comprehensive coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs. It is critical not to decline Medicare Part B, as losing Part B means losing TFL. Prescription coverage continues through the TRICARE pharmacy program throughout retirement, and the TRICARE mail-order pharmacy is an excellent option for maintenance medications.