Free Help First
Before hiring an attorney, try these free resources. They resolve most TRICARE claims issues at no cost to you.
Beneficiary Counseling & Assistance Coordinators (BCACs)
BCACs are trained counselors provided by the Defense Health Agency who help beneficiaries understand and resolve TRICARE claims issues, appeals, and billing problems.
- Help with claims issues, appeals, and billing disputes
- Explain benefits and coverage determinations
- Assist with filing formal appeals
- Available through your regional contractor
Contact: Contact your regional contractor (Humana Military for East, HealthNet for West)
Patient Advocates
Every Military Treatment Facility (MTF) has a Patient Advocate who helps beneficiaries navigate care within the military health system and resolve concerns.
- Free at every Military Treatment Facility
- Help resolve care quality concerns
- Assist with appointment access issues
- Coordinate between departments on your behalf
Contact: Ask the front desk at your local MTF for the Patient Advocate office
Military OneSource
Military OneSource provides free legal consultation sessions that can help with TRICARE disputes, understanding your rights, and navigating the appeals process.
- Up to 12 free legal consultation sessions
- Confidential and available 24/7
- Help understanding your legal rights
- Referrals to specialized military attorneys
Contact: 1-800-342-9647 | militaryonesource.mil
When You Need Professional Help
Consider hiring a professional when your situation involves any of the following:
If your free resources have been exhausted and the issue remains unresolved, professional help may be worthwhile.
Types of Professionals Who Can Help
Different situations call for different types of expertise:
Military Benefits Attorneys
Specialize in TRICARE and VA claims law. Many work on contingency, meaning you only pay if they win your case.
- Specialize in military healthcare law
- Often work on contingency fees
- Handle complex appeals and litigation
- Know TRICARE regulations deeply
Healthcare Billing Advocates
Experts in medical billing who can identify errors, negotiate charges, and ensure you are billed correctly under TRICARE guidelines.
- Identify billing errors and overcharges
- Negotiate with providers on your behalf
- Review EOBs for accuracy
- Help with balance billing disputes
Patient Advocacy Organizations
Nonprofits dedicated to helping military families navigate the healthcare system and resolve disputes at no cost.
- Free services for military families
- Experienced with TRICARE processes
- Community support and resources
- Help with systemic advocacy
Congressional Caseworkers
Your elected officials' offices have staff dedicated to helping constituents resolve issues with federal agencies, including TRICARE.
- Free service from your representatives
- Can intervene with federal agencies
- Effective for bureaucratic roadblocks
- Contact your Senator or Representative
National Organizations Directory
These organizations provide resources, advocacy, and legal support for military families dealing with TRICARE issues:
National Military Family Association (NMFA)
Advocacy and support for military families on healthcare and benefits issues
Armed Forces Legal Assistance
Free legal services for eligible military members and dependents
Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)
Advocacy organization offering benefits counseling and legislative action
National Association of TRICARE Providers (NATP)
Resources for understanding provider-side TRICARE issues and billing
Veterans Legal Services
State-level legal aid organizations specializing in veteran and military benefits
How to Choose a TRICARE Attorney
If you decide to hire professional help, keep these tips in mind:
- Verify they specialize in military healthcare law
- Ask about fee structure (contingency vs. hourly)
- Check state bar association standing
- Look for military legal experience or JAG background
- Get a free initial consultation before committing
- Ask for references from other military families
Common Questions
Can I appeal a TRICARE denial without an attorney?
Yes. Most TRICARE appeals can be filed without an attorney. Start with an informal reconsideration, then move to a formal appeal if needed. Free resources like BCACs can help you through the process. An attorney is typically only needed for complex cases or large dollar amounts.
How much does a TRICARE benefits attorney cost?
Costs vary widely. Some attorneys work on contingency (they only get paid if you win), typically taking 25-33% of the recovered amount. Others charge hourly rates of $150-$400/hour. Always ask about fees upfront and get a written fee agreement.
What is balance billing and can an attorney help?
Balance billing occurs when a provider charges you the difference between their fee and what TRICARE pays. TRICARE-authorized providers cannot balance bill you for covered services. An attorney or billing advocate can help resolve these situations and recover improperly collected payments.
How long do I have to appeal a TRICARE denial?
You generally have 90 days from the date of the initial denial to request a reconsideration, and additional time for formal appeals. However, the sooner you act, the better. Visit our appeals guide for detailed timelines and steps.
Can my Congressional representative really help with TRICARE issues?
Yes. Congressional caseworkers regularly help constituents with federal agency disputes. They can make formal inquiries on your behalf, which often accelerates resolution. Contact your Senator or Representative's local office and ask for their casework team.