What happens to TRICARE after divorce?
Quick Answer
After divorce, former spouses lose TRICARE unless they meet the 20/20/20 rule (20 years of marriage, 20 years of service, 20 years of overlap). Otherwise, the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) provides temporary coverage.
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Key Takeaways
- The 20/20/20 rule allows full TRICARE benefits for qualifying former spouses
- CHCBP provides 36 months of temporary coverage if you lose eligibility
- Children remain covered under the military sponsor regardless of divorce
- You must enroll in CHCBP within 60 days of losing TRICARE
Detailed Answer
Divorce can significantly impact TRICARE eligibility for former spouses. Understanding the rules helps you plan for healthcare coverage after a divorce.
The 20/20/20 Rule (Full Benefits)
- Marriage lasted at least 20 years
- Service member served at least 20 years of creditable service
- At least 20 years of overlap between the marriage and military service
- If you meet all three, you retain full TRICARE benefits as a former spouse
- Coverage continues as long as you do not remarry before age 55
The 20/20/15 Rule (Transitional Benefits)
- Marriage lasted at least 20 years
- Service member served at least 20 years
- At least 15 years (but less than 20) of overlap
- Provides one year of transitional TRICARE coverage after the divorce
If You Don't Meet Either Rule
- TRICARE coverage ends on the day of the divorce
- You are no longer eligible for any TRICARE benefits
- Children remain covered under the sponsor's TRICARE through DEERS
Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP)
- Available to former spouses who lose TRICARE eligibility
- Provides 36 months of temporary health coverage
- Must enroll within 60 days of losing TRICARE
- Premiums are paid entirely by the enrollee (approximately $560/month individual)
- Coverage is similar to TRICARE Select
Children After Divorce
- Children remain eligible for TRICARE regardless of divorce
- Must remain registered in DEERS under the military sponsor
- Custody arrangements do not affect TRICARE eligibility
- Coverage continues until age 21 (or 23 for full-time students)
Steps to Take During Divorce
- Understand which rule applies to your situation
- Contact your TRICARE contractor to discuss eligibility changes
- Update DEERS immediately after the divorce is final
- Enroll in CHCBP within 60 days if needed
- Consider employer or marketplace health insurance as alternatives
Remarriage
- If a 20/20/20 former spouse remarries before age 55, TRICARE ends
- If they remarry after age 55, TRICARE coverage continues
- If the new marriage ends (divorce or death), eligibility may be restored
Helpful Tips
- Determine if you meet the 20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rule early in the divorce process
- Enroll in CHCBP immediately if you lose TRICARE to avoid a gap in coverage
- Ensure children remain registered in DEERS under the military sponsor after divorce
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
Does TRICARE cover my family members?
Yes, TRICARE covers eligible family members including spouses, children under 21 (or 23 if students), and children with disabilities.
Does a divorced spouse keep TRICARE coverage?
Divorced spouses may keep TRICARE coverage if married 20+ years with 20+ years of military service overlapping by 20+ years (20/20/20 rule).
What is the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP)?
CHCBP is temporary premium-based coverage for 18-36 months for those losing TRICARE eligibility due to separation, divorce, or aging out.
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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