Do I need Medicare Part B with TRICARE?
Quick Answer
Yes, TRICARE beneficiaries must enroll in Medicare Part B at age 65 to maintain TRICARE For Life. Failing to enroll on time results in permanent premium penalties of 10% per year of delayed enrollment.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Part B is required to keep TRICARE For Life at age 65
- Late enrollment penalties are permanent at 10% per year of delay
- Enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday
- Part B premium is approximately $185/month in 2026
Detailed Answer
Medicare Part B enrollment is essential for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries approaching age 65. Without it, you lose access to TRICARE For Life.
Why You Need Medicare Part B
- TRICARE For Life (TFL) requires both Medicare Part A and Part B
- Without Part B, TFL coverage is suspended
- Medicare becomes your primary insurance at age 65
- TFL acts as secondary coverage, filling Medicare gaps
Enrollment Timeline
- Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after
- You should enroll during this 7-month window to avoid penalties
- Medicare Part A is usually automatic and premium-free if you paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years
Late Enrollment Penalties
- 10% premium increase for each 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll
- This penalty is permanent and lasts for the rest of your life
- Example: If you delay 2 years, your Part B premium is permanently 20% higher
- There is no military exemption from this penalty
Medicare Part B Costs (2026)
- Standard monthly premium is approximately $185 (adjusted annually)
- Higher-income beneficiaries may pay more (IRMAA surcharges)
- Premium is typically deducted from Social Security payments
What Happens If You Don't Enroll
- TRICARE For Life coverage is suspended
- You will only have Medicare Part A (hospital coverage)
- All outpatient care costs become your responsibility
- Prescription coverage through TRICARE pharmacy may also be affected
Special Situations
- If you are still working at 65 with employer coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
- Overseas beneficiaries have different rules for Medicare Part B
- TRICARE pays primary for overseas care even without Part B
How to Enroll
- Visit ssa.gov or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
- Apply online, by phone, or at your local Social Security office
- Update your DEERS record with your Medicare information
Helpful Tips
- Start the Medicare enrollment process 3 months before turning 65
- Update your DEERS record immediately after receiving your Medicare card
- Never drop Medicare Part B once enrolled or you will lose TFL
Related TRICARE Terms
TRICARE For Life(TFL)
Medicare wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries age 65+.
Beneficiary
Person eligible to receive TRICARE benefits.
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System(DEERS)
Database of all individuals eligible for military benefits.
Copayment
Fixed amount you pay for covered services.
Related Questions
What is TRICARE For Life and who qualifies?
TRICARE For Life is Medicare wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries age 65+ who have Medicare Parts A and B.
How do TRICARE and Medicare work together?
TRICARE For Life works with Medicare for beneficiaries 65+ who have both Medicare Part A and B, with Medicare paying first and TRICARE second.
Should I choose TRICARE For Life or Medicare Advantage?
TFL with Original Medicare is usually better than Medicare Advantage because TFL acts as comprehensive secondary coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs.