Group B Retiree
Quick Definition
Military retirees who first became eligible for TRICARE on or after January 1, 2018.
Key Takeaways
- Retirees first eligible for TRICARE on or after January 1, 2018
- Higher enrollment fees, deductibles, and catastrophic caps than Group A
- Cost structure established by the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act
Full Definition
A Group B Retiree is a military retiree (or family member of a retiree) who first became eligible for TRICARE on or after January 1, 2018. Group B retirees have a different cost structure than Group A, with higher enrollment fees, deductibles, and catastrophic caps as established by the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act.
Group B classification: • Sponsor first became TRICARE-eligible on or after January 1, 2018 • Includes newly retiring service members and their families • Determined by the date the sponsor initially qualifies for TRICARE retiree benefits
Group B cost structure: • Higher annual enrollment fees for TRICARE Prime and Select • Higher annual deductibles for TRICARE Select • Higher catastrophic cap amounts • Cost increases tied to annual adjustments
Key differences from Group A: • TRICARE Prime enrollment: Higher annual fee • TRICARE Select enrollment: Higher annual fee • Select deductibles: Higher individual and family amounts • Catastrophic cap: Higher annual limit
Group B retirees should carefully compare TRICARE Prime and Select costs during Open Season, as the cost differences between plans may be more significant for Group B beneficiaries. Understanding your Group B rates helps you make informed healthcare coverage decisions.
Helpful Tips
- Carefully compare Prime and Select costs as a Group B retiree since the cost differential may be larger.
- Budget for higher annual healthcare costs compared to Group A retirees and review rates each year.
Related Questions
How much does TRICARE cost?
Costs vary by plan and beneficiary status. Active duty members have no costs. Retirees and their families pay enrollment fees and cost-shares.
How do I switch between TRICARE Prime and Select?
You can switch plans during the annual Open Season (Nov-Dec) or after a Qualifying Life Event like PCS, birth, or marriage.
What is the difference between Group A and Group B retirees?
Group A retirees retired before January 1, 2018 and pay higher deductibles and catastrophic caps. Group B retired on/after that date with lower costs.
Related Terms
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