Do I have to pay TRICARE Prime enrollment fees?
Quick Answer
Active duty families pay no Prime enrollment fees. Retirees pay annual enrollment fees starting at $179 for individual or $358 for family in 2024.
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Key Takeaways
- Active duty families pay no enrollment fees
- Retiree fees start at $179/individual
- Fees can be paid monthly or annually
- Some groups receive fee waivers
Detailed Answer
TRICARE Prime enrollment fees depend on your beneficiary category.
No Enrollment Fees
- Active duty service members
- Active duty family members
- Active duty survivors (first 3 years)
Retiree Enrollment Fees (2024)
- Individual: $179/year
- Family: $358/year
- Paid monthly, quarterly, or annually
- Fees adjust annually
Group A vs Group B Retirees
- Group A: Retired before Jan 1, 2018
- Group B: Retired on/after Jan 1, 2018
- Both pay same Prime enrollment fees
- Cost share differences apply
How to Pay
- Allotment from retirement pay
- Recurring credit/debit card
- Easy Pay (bank account draft)
- Pay.gov for one-time payments
Enrollment Fee Waivers
- Medal of Honor recipients
- Prisoners of War
- Combat-wounded veterans
- Certain surviving family members
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
What is the difference between TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select?
TRICARE Prime is a managed care option with a primary care manager and lower costs. TRICARE Select offers more flexibility to choose providers with higher out-of-pocket expenses.
How much does TRICARE cost?
Costs vary by plan and beneficiary status. Active duty members have no costs. Retirees and their families pay enrollment fees and cost-shares.
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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