TRICARE For Life (TFL) is a health insurance program designed for beneficiaries who are eligible for both Medicare and TRICARE. It’s a valuable option for retired military members and their dependents who want to continue receiving quality healthcare coverage after leaving active duty.
Eligibility for TRICARE For Life
To be eligible for TFL, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in Medicare: You must be enrolled in both Parts A and B of Medicare.
- Have retired from active duty: You must have retired from active duty with at least 20 years of service.
- Be a dependent of a retired or deceased military member: If you’re a dependent, your sponsor must meet the eligibility requirements.
How TRICARE For Life Works
TFL acts as a secondary payer to Medicare. This means that Medicare pays first, and TFL covers the remaining costs. TFL can help cover the following:
- Medicare Part B deductibles and coinsurance: TFL can help cover these costs, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
- Medigap costs: If you have a Medigap plan, TFL can help cover the premiums.
- Excess costs: If Medicare doesn’t cover all of your healthcare costs, TFL can help fill in the gaps.
Key Benefits of TRICARE For Life
- Continuity of Care: TFL allows you to continue receiving care from military healthcare providers, ensuring a seamless transition from active duty to retirement.
- Cost Savings: TFL can help reduce your out-of-pocket healthcare costs by covering the gaps left by Medicare.
- Access to Military Treatment Facilities: As a TFL beneficiary, you can continue to access military treatment facilities (MTFs) for your healthcare needs.
Enrollment in TRICARE For Life
To enroll in TFL, you’ll need to complete an enrollment form and provide documentation of your Medicare coverage. You can enroll in TFL online, by mail, or by phone.
TRICARE For Life is a valuable resource for retired military members and their dependents seeking affordable and reliable healthcare coverage. By understanding the eligibility requirements and benefits of TFL, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare options.
