Separation from Military Service
When you separate from military service (non-retirement), your active duty TRICARE coverage ends on your separation date. However, you and your family members are eligible for 180 days of transitional healthcare coverage called Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP). TAMP provides the same TRICARE benefits you had on active duty at no cost. After TAMP expires, you can purchase temporary coverage through CHCBP for up to 18 months (36 months for others). You may also be eligible for VA healthcare based on your service. Planning your healthcare transition should be part of your Transition Assistance Program (TAP) participation.
Timeline
Attend Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and review healthcare options
Apply for VA healthcare enrollment
Schedule final medical and dental appointments
Complete separation physical
TAMP coverage begins automatically
TAMP coverage ends
Apply for CHCBP if needed
Enroll in employer-sponsored or ACA marketplace coverage
Action Checklist
- Complete TAP briefing including healthcare transition module
- Apply for VA healthcare enrollment
- Complete separation physical examination
- Obtain copies of all military medical records
- Understand TAMP eligibility and timeline
- Research civilian insurance options before separation
- File any VA disability claims before or at separation
- Apply for CHCBP within 60 days of TAMP end if needed
- Update DEERS with separation status
- Ensure all family members have coverage plan post-TAMP
Plan Impact
Active duty TRICARE ends on separation date. TAMP provides 180 days of Premium-free TRICARE Prime, Select, or TRICARE For Life equivalent coverage. After TAMP, you must find alternative coverage through CHCBP, employer insurance, ACA marketplace, VA healthcare, or Medicaid. Reserve component members may be eligible for TRICARE Reserve Select.
Cost Impact
TAMP coverage is free for 180 days. CHCBP premiums are approximately $550-600/month individual or $1,200-1,400/month family. VA healthcare costs depend on priority group and disability rating. Loss of military status ends commissary and exchange healthcare-related benefits. ACA marketplace plans vary by income and location.
Required Forms & Documents
- DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge)
- VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for VA Healthcare)
- DD Form 2837 (CHCBP enrollment, if applicable)
- DD Form 1172-2 (DEERS update)
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