Dependent Aging Out of TRICARE
TRICARE coverage for dependent children ends at specific age milestones. Most dependents lose coverage at age 21, or age 23 if enrolled full-time in college. After aging out, young adults can purchase TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) coverage until age 26, which provides TRICARE Prime or Select-level benefits at a monthly premium. TYA is a premium-based plan that serves as a bridge until the young adult obtains employer-sponsored or other coverage. Dependents who are incapacitated and unable to support themselves may retain TRICARE coverage beyond these age limits. Planning ahead is critical to avoid coverage gaps.
Timeline
Review dependent's TRICARE eligibility timeline
Research TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) eligibility and costs
Apply for TYA if desired
Standard TRICARE coverage ends
TYA coverage begins (if enrolled)
TYA coverage ends
Transition to employer, ACA marketplace, or other coverage
Action Checklist
- Determine the exact date TRICARE coverage ends for the dependent
- Verify if full-time student status extends coverage to age 23
- Evaluate TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) options and costs
- Apply for TYA via milConnect before coverage gap
- Explore employer-sponsored insurance options
- Check ACA marketplace during special enrollment period
- Consider campus health plans if still in school
- Update DEERS records when dependent ages out
- Keep copies of all transition documentation
Plan Impact
Standard TRICARE dependent coverage ends at age 21 (23 for full-time students). TRICARE Young Adult Prime offers managed care with PCM referral requirements. TRICARE Young Adult Select provides PPO-style coverage with more provider flexibility. TYA is only available to unmarried dependents under 26 who are not eligible for employer-sponsored coverage. Dental coverage ends with standard TRICARE and is not available under TYA.
Cost Impact
TRICARE Young Adult Prime monthly premiums are approximately $306/month (2026). TRICARE Young Adult Select premiums are approximately $228/month (2026). Standard copayments and cost-shares apply under each TYA option. Aging out of standard TRICARE is a Qualifying Life Event for ACA marketplace enrollment (60-day special enrollment period).
Required Forms & Documents
- TRICARE Young Adult application (online via milConnect)
- DD Form 1172-2 (DEERS verification)
- Full-time student verification (if extending to 23)
- Proof of unmarried status for TYA eligibility
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