Getting Married
Spouses of service members are eligible for TRICARE. This includes:
- Active duty spouses
- Retired spouses
- Guard/Reserve spouses
- Same-sex spouses
In the following situations, getting married causes TRICARE benefits to end:
- Surviving (widowed) spouse remarries
- Former spouse remarries
- Adult child using TRICARE Young Adult gets married
Step-child(ren) are also eligible for TRICARE as long as the parent of the child and sponsor are married.
Update DEERS
Your spouse and step-child(ren) must registered in Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
- Go to any ID card-issuing office to add your spouse to DEERS.
- You'll need the following documents (originals or certified copies):
- Marriage certificate
- Spouse's birth certificate
- Spouse's Social Security card
- Spouse's photo ID
Spouse and Family Health Care Options
Your spouse’s TRICARE plan depends on where you live and your military status.
Active duty spouses may also be able to enroll in one of these Prime plans with their active duty sponsors:
*You must enroll. If overseas, family members must be command-sponsored.
Dental Options
TRICARE has two dental plans for spouses to purchase. These dental plans are separate from TRICARE's health plans.
Pharmacy Coverage
TRICARE provides a robust pharmacy benefit.
Costs
Health care costs depend on your health plan and sponsor's military status.
Married Active Duty Service Members
When two active duty service members get married, they will each have their own DEERS record. If they have children, only one parent will be the "sponsor" in DEERS. For more information, call 1-800-538-9552 or log in to MilConnect.