Beneficiary
Quick Definition
Person eligible to receive TRICARE benefits.
Video Explanation
Full Definition
A TRICARE beneficiary is any person who is eligible to receive healthcare benefits through the TRICARE program. Beneficiary status is determined by relationship to a military service member and registration in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
Beneficiary categories include: • Active duty service members • Active duty family members • Retired service members • Retired family members • National Guard and Reserve members (when activated) • Survivors of deceased service members • Medal of Honor recipients and families • Certain former spouses
Each beneficiary category has different plan options, costs, and coverage levels. All beneficiaries must be registered in DEERS to access TRICARE benefits. Beneficiary status can change based on life events such as marriage, divorce, aging out of dependent coverage, or changes in military status.
Related Questions
What is TRICARE?
TRICARE is the healthcare program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families worldwide.
Who is eligible for TRICARE?
Active duty members, retirees, National Guard/Reserve members, their families, survivors, and Medal of Honor recipients.
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.
What is TRICARE For Life and who qualifies?
TRICARE For Life is Medicare wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries age 65+ who have Medicare Parts A and B.
Does TRICARE cover my family members?
Yes, TRICARE covers eligible family members including spouses, children under 21 (or 23 if students), and children with disabilities.
What TRICARE options are available for Reserve and National Guard members?
Reserve and Guard members have TRICARE Reserve Select when not activated, and regular TRICARE when on active duty orders over 30 days.
Does TRICARE cover dental care?
TRICARE medical plans include limited dental (emergency only). Separate dental insurance available through FEDVIP program.
How do TRICARE and Medicare work together?
TRICARE For Life works with Medicare for beneficiaries 65+ who have both Medicare Part A and B, with Medicare paying first and TRICARE second.
Does TRICARE cover eye exams and glasses?
TRICARE covers medical eye care and exams for conditions/diseases. Routine vision exams and glasses require separate FEDVIP vision insurance.
Do surviving family members keep TRICARE after a service member dies?
Yes, surviving family members retain TRICARE coverage indefinitely if the sponsor died on active duty or after retirement with 20+ years of service.
How do I register in DEERS?
Register in DEERS at any ID card office (RAPIDS site) with required documents including military ID, marriage certificate, or birth certificates.
Does a divorced spouse keep TRICARE coverage?
Divorced spouses may keep TRICARE coverage if married 20+ years with 20+ years of military service overlapping by 20+ years (20/20/20 rule).
Are parents of service members eligible for TRICARE?
No, parents of service members are not eligible for TRICARE benefits, even if they are dependent on their military child for support.
Related Terms
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