Filed under: Military Benefits
Information on Military Benefits here!
TRICARE for Life (TFL) originated in October of 2001 to fulfill a promise of life-long health care many were given when they first joined the military. Prior to 2001, TRICARE coverage expired at age 65 forcing military retirees, their families, and survivors to rely solely on Medicare. TFL provides military health care coverage to TRICARE beneficiaries 65 years of age or older.
When TRICARE beneficiaries (other than eligible active duty family members) become entitled to Medicare Part A, on the basis of age or disability/end-stage renal disease and purchase Medicare Part B, they do not experience a break in TRICARE coverage. TRICARE For Life (TFL) pays secondary to Medicare. The following is a summary of TRICARE for LIFE and dual eligibility:
Tricare for Life Eligibility
TFL is available for all dual TRICARE-Medicare-eligible uniformed services retirees, including retired members of the Reserve Component who are in receipt of retired pay, Medicare-eligible family members, Medicare-eligible widows/widowers, certain former spouses, and beneficiaries under age 65 who are also entitled to Medicare Part A because of a disability or chronic renal disease. Dependent parents and parents-in-law are not eligible for TRICARE benefits-except TRICARE Senior Pharmacy benefits-and they may continue to receive services within a military treatment facility on a space-available basis. In order to eligible for TRICARE Senior Pharmacy benefits, they must be entitled to Medicare Part A, and if they turned age 65 on or after April 1, 2001, be enrolled in Medicare Part B.
TFL Cost to Beneficiaries
There are no enrollment fees for TFL. Beneficiaries, other than active duty family members, are required to purchase Medicare Part B and MUST pay the appropriate Medicare Part B monthly premiums. Beneficiaries may check with the Social Security Administration online at www.ssa.gov, call toll-free at (800) 772-1213 or visit Medicare online at www.medicare.gov for more information about enrolling in Medicare Part B and monthly premiums that apply.
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