Dependent
Quick Definition
A family member who receives TRICARE benefits through a military service member sponsor.
Full Definition
A dependent is a family member who derives TRICARE eligibility through a military service member (sponsor). Dependents must be registered in DEERS to receive TRICARE benefits, and their eligibility varies based on their relationship to the sponsor and other factors.
Who qualifies as a TRICARE dependent: • Legal spouse of the service member • Unmarried biological, adopted, or stepchildren under age 21 • Unmarried children ages 21-23 enrolled full-time in an accredited college • Children incapable of self-support due to a disability (if disability occurred before age 21 or 23 if in college) • Wards and pre-adoptive children in certain circumstances • Parents and parents-in-law (in limited circumstances)
Dependent eligibility requirements: • Must be registered in DEERS by the sponsor • Must provide required documentation (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.) • Must maintain eligibility requirements (age, student status, etc.) • Must update DEERS within 90 days of life events
When dependent eligibility ends: • Children turning 21 (unless full-time students or disabled) • Students turning 23 or losing full-time status • Divorce from the sponsor (with some exceptions for former spouses) • Marriage of a dependent child (for some benefits)
Dependent eligibility changes may qualify for a Qualifying Life Event, allowing plan changes outside of Open Season. Always update DEERS promptly when dependent status changes to avoid coverage gaps.
Related Questions
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.
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 do I add my newborn to TRICARE?
Register your newborn in DEERS within 60 days of birth with the birth certificate and Social Security card to ensure continuous coverage.
Are stepchildren eligible for TRICARE?
Yes, stepchildren are eligible for TRICARE when married to the sponsor and registered in DEERS, regardless of adoption status.
Can adult children with disabilities stay on TRICARE?
Yes, unmarried adult children with disabilities that began before age 21 (or 23 if student) can remain on TRICARE indefinitely.
How does TRICARE work for dual-military couples?
In dual-military couples, each spouse is their own sponsor for TRICARE Prime, and children can be enrolled under either parent's plan.
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.
What happens when my child turns 26 on TRICARE?
TRICARE Young Adult coverage ends at age 26. Your child will need to find other health insurance through an employer, ACA marketplace, or other sources.
How does full-time student status affect TRICARE eligibility?
Full-time students can remain on TRICARE until age 23 instead of 21, provided they maintain full-time enrollment at an accredited institution.
How do I enroll my newborn in TRICARE?
Register your newborn in DEERS within 60 days of birth using the birth certificate. The baby is covered from birth once registered.
Related Terms
Active Duty Family Member(ADFM)
Eligible family members of active duty service members.
Beneficiary
Person eligible to receive TRICARE benefits.
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System(DEERS)
Database of all individuals eligible for military benefits.
Sponsor
Active duty or retired service member whose service qualifies family for benefits.
Qualifying Life Event(QLE)
A significant change that allows you to enroll in or change TRICARE plans outside Open Season.
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