Back to All FAQs
plans
enrollment
When is TRICARE Open Season and what can I change?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini, gpt-4o)
Quick Answer
TRICARE Open Season runs mid-November to mid-December annually. You can switch between Prime and Select with changes effective January 1.
Related Video
Key Takeaways
- Mid-November to mid-December
- Switch Prime/Select
- Changes effective January 1
- Qualifying life events allow mid-year changes
Detailed Answer
TRICARE Open Season is your annual opportunity to change plans:
Dates
- Typically mid-November to mid-December
- Same time as Federal Benefits Open Season
- Changes effective January 1
What You Can Change
- Switch from Prime to Select
- Switch from Select to Prime
- Add or remove family members
- Update enrollment information
Who It Applies To
- Retirees and their families
- Retired Reserve members
- Certain other beneficiary groups
- NOT active duty (must stay in Prime)
What You CAN'T Change
- Active duty status
- Eligibility categories
- TRICARE region
Qualifying Life Events:
- Outside Open Season, you can change plans if:
- Moving to new location
- Getting married or divorced
- Having a baby
- Losing other coverage
No Action Required:
If happy with current plan, coverage continues automatically.
Helpful Tips
- Review plans before Open Season
- Consider next year health needs
- Set calendar reminder
Related TRICARE Terms
TRICARE Prime
Managed care option with assigned PCM and lowest costs.
TRICARE Select
Self-managed option with provider choice and flexibility.
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System(DEERS)
Database of all individuals eligible for military benefits.
Beneficiary
Person eligible to receive TRICARE benefits.
Was this FAQ helpful?
Need personalized help with this?
Most military families leave benefits on the table. Our free 2-minute coverage check identifies gaps, finds potential savings, and gives you personalized recommendations.
Check My Coverage 100% Free Instant Results No Signup Required