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How can adult children stay on TRICARE after age 21?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini, gpt-4o)
Quick Answer
TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) covers dependents ages 21-26 for $220-260/month. Must be unmarried and ineligible for employer health coverage.
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Key Takeaways
- Ages 21-26 eligible
- $220-260 monthly premium
- Cannot have employer coverage
- Students covered until 23
Detailed Answer
TRICARE Young Adult (TYA):
Eligibility
- Ages 21-26
- Unmarried
- Not eligible for employer coverage
- Sponsor must have TRICARE
Monthly Premiums (2024)
- TYA Prime: ~$260/month
- TYA Select: ~$220/month
- Paid by young adult
- Billed quarterly
Coverage Options
- TYA Prime (if available)
- TYA Select
- Same as parent's plan type
- Regional contractors
How to Enroll
- Purchase through milConnect
- Or call regional contractor
- Must qualify before age 21
- Update DEERS status
What Extends Coverage
- Full-time students until 23
- Incapacitated children (indefinite)
- TYA for others until 26
Helpful Tips
- Compare to parent employer plan
- Enroll before turning 21
- Check student extension
Related TRICARE Terms
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What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
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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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