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LIFE EVENT GUIDE
TRICARE After Divorce
Divorce affects your TRICARE eligibility as a spouse. Understanding the rules now can help you plan for healthcare coverage and avoid gaps in protection.
Time-Sensitive: 60-Day CHCBP Window
If you don't qualify for continued TRICARE, you have only 60 days after divorce finalization to apply for the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP). Don't miss this deadline.
Do You Qualify for Continued TRICARE?
20/20/20 Rule
Full TRICARE eligibility
Requirements:
- Married for at least 20 years
- Sponsor served at least 20 years
- 20-year overlap between marriage and service
Coverage: Lifetime TRICARE coverage as "former spouse" - same benefits as retiree dependents
20/20/15 Rule
Temporary TRICARE (1 year)
Requirements:
- Married for at least 20 years
- Sponsor served at least 20 years
- 15-19 year overlap between marriage and service
Coverage: One year of transitional TRICARE coverage after divorce
Does Not Qualify
No TRICARE eligibility
Requirements:
- Marriage/service overlap less than 15 years
- Or sponsor served less than 20 years
Coverage: May qualify for CHCBP (up to 36 months) or must find civilian coverage
Timeline: What to Expect
1
During Divorce Proceedings
- Coverage continues unchanged while legally married
- Start researching your post-divorce options now
- Gather documentation of marriage length and service overlap
2
Divorce Finalized
- DEERS status must be updated within 30 days
- Former spouse TRICARE eligibility ends (with exceptions)
- Children remain covered as dependents
3
Within 60 Days
- Apply for CHCBP if eligible (Continued Health Care Benefit Program)
- Explore civilian health insurance options
- Update all healthcare provider records
CHCBP: Your Safety Net
Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP)
CHCBP is a premium-based health plan that provides temporary coverage for former spouses who don't qualify for continued TRICARE. It's similar to COBRA for civilian employers.
Key Details:
- Coverage lasts up to 36 months
- Must apply within 60 days of losing TRICARE
- Covers medical, pharmacy, dental, vision
2024 Premium Estimates:
- Individual: ~$550-600/month
- Family: ~$1,200-1,400/month
- Premiums adjust annually
CHCBP Contact: 1-800-444-5445
What About the Children?
Children Remain Covered
Divorce does not affect children's TRICARE eligibility. Children of service members and retirees remain eligible for TRICARE benefits regardless of custody arrangements.
- Children stay covered until age 21 (or 23 if full-time students)
- TRICARE Young Adult available for ages 21-26
- Custody does not change eligibility