Sponsor
Quick Definition
Active duty or retired service member whose service qualifies family for benefits.
Video Explanation
Full Definition
A sponsor is the uniformed service member (active duty, retired, or deceased) whose military service establishes TRICARE eligibility for family members and other dependents. The sponsor's status, rank, and years of service determine which TRICARE plans and benefits are available to family members.
Sponsor categories: • Active Duty Sponsor: Currently serving full-time • Retired Sponsor: Retired from military service with 20+ years • Deceased Sponsor: Family members may maintain benefits as survivors • Reserve/Guard Sponsor: When activated or using Reserve Select
How sponsor status affects benefits: • Active Duty: Family members get priority benefits, lower costs • Retired Group A: Retired before 2018, lower costs • Retired Group B: Retired 2018 or later, higher costs • Rank: May affect some copay amounts
Sponsor responsibilities: • Register family members in DEERS • Update DEERS for life changes (marriage, birth, divorce) • Maintain valid ID cards for dependents • Choose family members' TRICARE plans (with input) • Ensure family understands their benefits
Important: Sponsor's death doesn't end family coverage—surviving family members retain TRICARE eligibility under specific rules. Divorce may affect eligibility unless specific time-in-service criteria are met (20/20/20 or 20/20/15 rules).
The sponsor is the connection between military service and family healthcare benefits, making it crucial to keep DEERS updated with current sponsor and family information.
Related Questions
Who is eligible for TRICARE?
Active duty members, retirees, National Guard/Reserve members, their families, survivors, and Medal of Honor recipients.
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.
Can my adult children get TRICARE coverage?
Yes, through TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) for qualified dependents ages 21-26 who are not eligible for employer health coverage.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Related Terms
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