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Are stepchildren eligible for TRICARE?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
Yes, stepchildren are eligible for TRICARE when married to the sponsor and registered in DEERS, regardless of adoption status.
Key Takeaways
- Stepchildren are eligible through marriage to sponsor
- No adoption required for TRICARE eligibility
- Same benefits as biological children
- Coverage ends if sponsor divorces stepchild's parent
Detailed Answer
Stepchildren can receive TRICARE coverage as dependents of the sponsor through marriage, with no adoption required.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be married to the sponsor
- Child must be under 21 (or under 23 if full-time student)
- Child must live with the sponsor or be dependent on sponsor for over 50% of support
- Must be registered in DEERS
How to Register
- Visit RAPIDS ID card office
- Bring marriage certificate to sponsor's spouse
- Bring stepchild's birth certificate
- Bring proof of dependency (if child doesn't live with sponsor)
Coverage Details
- Same coverage as biological children
- Includes medical, dental, and pharmacy benefits
- Coverage ends at age 21 (23 if student) or marriage
Special Situations
- Child from previous marriage of spouse qualifies
- Non-custodial stepchildren may qualify with dependency proof
- Foster children have different eligibility rules
When Coverage Ends
- Divorce from the child's parent
- Child reaches age limit
- Child marries
- Child joins the military
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
Who is eligible for TRICARE?
Active duty members, retirees, National Guard/Reserve members, their families, survivors, and Medal of Honor recipients.
Can my adult children get TRICARE coverage?
Yes, through TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) for qualified dependents ages 21-26 who are not eligible for employer health coverage.