What is a qualifying life event for TRICARE?
Quick Answer
A qualifying life event allows TRICARE enrollment changes outside open season. Examples include marriage, divorce, birth, adoption, PCS move, retirement, and loss of other health insurance.
Related Video
Detailed Answer
A qualifying life event (QLE) is a significant change in a beneficiary's life circumstances that opens a special enrollment window to enroll in, change, or disenroll from a TRICARE plan outside of the annual TRICARE Open Season. Beneficiaries have 90 days from the date of the qualifying event to make enrollment changes. Common qualifying life events include marriage or divorce, birth or adoption of a child, death of a spouse or family member, permanent change of station (PCS) move, retirement or separation from active duty, activation or deactivation of a Guard or Reserve member, loss of other health insurance coverage, and aging out of a parent's plan at age 26. When a QLE occurs, beneficiaries should promptly update their DEERS record and contact their regional TRICARE contractor to make any desired enrollment changes. Failure to act within the 90-day window means the beneficiary must wait until the next TRICARE Open Season to make changes.
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
How do I enroll in TRICARE?
Ensure you're registered in DEERS, then choose your plan during open enrollment or within 90 days of a qualifying life event.
How to change TRICARE plans?
You can change TRICARE plans during the annual Open Season (November-December) or within 90 days of a qualifying life event by contacting your regional contractor or using milConnect.
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.
See Recommended ResourcesShare this page
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