Tricare Benefits And Spouses | Information on TRICARE for Veterans' Spouses

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Tricare Benefits And Spouses -- What You Need To Know

Marrying a service member comes with a few perks, including health benefits. Before you can take advantage, however, there are certain steps you need to take. Here is a look at what you need to know about TRICARE benefits for military personnel and their families.

Sign Up With DEERS To Join TRICARE

Active duty service members must sign up their spouses with the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, also known as DEERS. This military database keeps track of everyone who is eligible for TRICARE benefits.

If you need to update your records, you can do so online at www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/address/index.jsp or talk to a DEERS representative. You can also visit the nearest military office and change your information in person.

Find Out What TRICARE Health Benefits Are Available

After you have registered with DEERS, you are eligible to enroll in TRICARE. Have your spouse contact a Beneficiary Service Representative (BSR) to get you started.

Educate yourself about the different TRICARE options available to you before choosing a program. There are plenty of ways to learn about what choice you have. Read the TRICARE handbook or visit the website at www.tricare.osd.mil. If you have questions, speak to your BSR or visit your Military Treatment Facility.

TRICARE After Leaving The Service

Once you leave the service, TRICARE provides temporary health benefits through CHCBP, the Continued Health Care Benefit Program. Being eligible depends on what you were eligible for initially. You need to enroll within 60 days of discharge or you will lose your eligibility for the program altogether.

While the benefits in CHCBP are like those in TRICARE Standard, you need to meet any premiums, cost-shares or annual deductibles that will arise. The coverage lasts for 18 months and it covers unmarried dependent children for up to 36 months.

TRICARE Eligibility After Divorce

TRICARE eligibility changes when you divorce. If you have children, they are entitled to the same benefits they have been receiving until they turn 18, as long your spouse is in the military.

Unfortunately, you will no longer be qualified for the health care plan. You may sign up for CHCBP within 60 days after your divorce finalizes. CHCBP can also help you find another health care provider.

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