When is TRICARE Open Season and enrollment deadlines?
Quick Answer
TRICARE Open Season runs November 11 through December 12 annually, with coverage changes effective January 1 of the following year.
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Key Takeaways
- Open Season: November 11 - December 12
- Changes effective January 1
- 90-day window for Qualifying Life Events
- Enroll through milConnect
Detailed Answer
TRICARE has specific enrollment periods and deadlines for plan changes.
Federal Benefits Open Season
- Dates: November 11 - December 12 annually
- Changes effective: January 1
- No documentation required
- Can switch between Prime and Select
Continuous Open Enrollment
- Active duty: Can enroll anytime
- New retirees: 90 days from retirement
- Newborns: 60 days from birth
- Marriage: 90 days from marriage
Qualifying Life Events
- 90-day window from event
- Documentation required
- Effective date varies by event
Important Deadlines
- TRICARE Prime: Must designate PCM
- TRICARE Select: No PCM required
- Dental (FEDVIP): Same Open Season
- Vision (FEDVIP): Same Open Season
Missing Open Season
- Must wait for next year OR
- Have a Qualifying Life Event
- Some exceptions for errors
How to Enroll
- Use milConnect online
- Call TRICARE contractor
- Visit TRICARE Service Center
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
How do I switch between TRICARE Prime and Select?
You can switch plans during the annual Open Season (Nov-Dec) or after a Qualifying Life Event like PCS, birth, or marriage.
What are TRICARE Qualifying Life Events?
Qualifying Life Events include PCS, marriage, divorce, birth, adoption, loss of coverage, and status changes that allow enrollment changes outside Open Season.
What else should I consider when enrolling in TRICARE?
Beyond your TRICARE plan choice, most military advisors recommend reviewing your life insurance, creating or updating your will, and checking your home/auto coverage — especially important during enrollment transitions.
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