Open Season
Quick Definition
Annual enrollment period when TRICARE beneficiaries can change health plans.
Key Takeaways
- Occurs annually in November-December with changes effective January 1
- No qualifying life event needed to change plans during Open Season
- Available for Prime, Select, and other TRICARE plans
Full Definition
Open Season is the annual enrollment period during which TRICARE beneficiaries can enroll in, change, or cancel their TRICARE health plan without needing a qualifying life event. The TRICARE Open Season typically runs from the second Monday in November through the second Monday in December each year.
What you can do during Open Season: • Switch from TRICARE Prime to TRICARE Select (or vice versa) • Enroll in TRICARE Prime if you live in a Prime Service Area • Disenroll from a plan • Add or remove family members from enrollment
Key details: • Changes made during Open Season take effect January 1 of the following year • No qualifying life event is required to make changes • Applies to TRICARE Prime, Select, and some other plans • Does not apply to active duty service members (automatically enrolled in Prime)
Important considerations: • Review your healthcare needs and costs before making changes • Compare Prime and Select to determine which plan best fits your situation • Ensure DEERS information is current before Open Season begins
Open Season provides an annual opportunity to reassess your healthcare coverage and make adjustments that better align with your current needs and budget.
Helpful Tips
- Mark your calendar for Open Season dates to avoid missing the enrollment window.
- Compare your current plan costs and usage before switching during Open Season.
Related Questions
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.
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.
When is TRICARE Open Season and enrollment deadlines?
TRICARE Open Season runs November 11 through December 12 annually, with coverage changes effective January 1 of the following year.
How do retirees get dental coverage with TRICARE?
Retirees can enroll in FEDVIP dental plans during Open Season. TDP is not available to retirees; FEDVIP replaced TRICARE Retiree Dental Program.
Related Terms
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