How do TRICARE and Medicare work together?

When you have both TRICARE and Medicare:

TRICARE For Life (TFL) • Available at age 65 if TRICARE-eligible • Requires Medicare Part A AND Part B • No enrollment fees for TFL • Must pay Medicare Part B premium

How It Works 1. Medicare pays first (primary payer) 2. TRICARE For Life pays second 3. You have minimal out-of-pocket costs

Cost Example Doctor visit with $200 charge: • Medicare pays: 80% = $160 • TFL pays: 20% = $40 • Your cost: $0 (after Medicare deductible)

Before Age 65 • TRICARE is primary insurance • Medicare is secondary (if you have it)

At Age 65 • Must enroll in Medicare Part B • TRICARE becomes secondary (TFL) • Medicare becomes primary

Important Requirements • Must have Medicare Part A AND Part B • Keep Medicare Part B premium current • Register in DEERS • Live in U.S. or territories

If You Don't Get Part B • Lose TRICARE coverage • No TFL benefits • Only Medicare Part A coverage

Medicare Advantage • Cannot use with TRICARE • Must disenroll from Advantage to use TFL • Keep Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

Prescription Coverage • Use TRICARE pharmacy program • Don't need Medicare Part D • TRICARE covers prescriptions

Enroll in Medicare 3 months before turning 65 to avoid gaps in coverage.