TRICARE For Life

TRICARE For Life is Medicare-wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who have Medicare Part A and B. 

• Enrollment not required
  • Coverage is automatic if you have Medicare Part A and B
  • You must pay Medicare Part B premiums
• Available worldwide:
  • TRICARE pays after Medicare in the U.S. and U.S. Territories
  • TRICARE is the first payer in all other overseas areas
• Meets or exceeds the requirements for minimum essential coverageBasic health care coverage that meets the Affordable Care Act requirement. If you don’t have coverage, you may have to pay a fee for each month you aren’t covered. under the Affordable Care Act.

Who Can Participate?

TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who have both Medicare Part A and B can use TRICARE For Life.

Not sure if you're eligible? Check out the Eligibilty Page for details.

How it Works

You may visit any authorized provider. >>Find a Doctor

• Your provider files your claims with Medicare. 
• Medicare pays its portion and sends the claim to the TRICARE For Life claims processor. 
• TRICARE For Life then pays the provider directly for TRICARE-covered services. 
• You won't receive a TRICARE wallet card, all you need is your Medicare card and military ID as proof of coverage.

You can get care at military hospitals and clinics, but only on a space-available basis. >>Find a Military Hospital or Clinic

What You Pay

You don't pay any enrollment fees, but you must pay Medicare Part B monthly premiums. Your Part B premium is based on your income.

For more information about Part B premiums:

• Visit the Medicare website 
• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)

You'll pay nothing out of pocket for services covered by both Medicare and TRICARE. >>Learn More

TRICARE For Life Contractors

The TRICARE For Life contractors assist with claims and provide customer service to all beneficiaries using TRICARE For Life.

• In the U.S. and U.S. Territories: Wisconsin Physicians Service (WPS)
• All other overseas areas: International SOS

Is TRICARE For Life Right for You?

TRICARE For Life is the plan for you if:

• You're eligible for TRICARE
• You have both Medicare Part A and B

Coverage is available worldwide and you can see any provider you want. However, you will have greater out of pocket expenses if you get care from Veteran's Administration providers or providers who opt-out of Medicare, because they are not permitted to bill Medicare. 

>>Learn More about TRICARE and Medicare Eligibility Requirements