TRICARE and Medicare Part B: What Military Retirees Must Know
You must enroll in Part B to keep TRICARE for Life. Without Part B, you lose TRICARE for Life benefits entirely. There is no penalty concern if you enroll on time — the concern is losing TRICARE if you don't.
When This Applies
- You are a military retiree turning 65
- You have TRICARE and are transitioning to TRICARE for Life
- You are wondering if TRICARE covers you without Part B
- You want to maintain military health benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need Part D with TRICARE?
- No. TRICARE provides creditable drug coverage, so you don't need a separate Part D plan and won't face a Part D penalty.
- Is TRICARE for Life free?
- Yes — there's no enrollment fee for TRICARE for Life. But you must pay your Part B premium.
- What happens to TRICARE Prime at 65?
- TRICARE Prime ends at 65. You transition to TRICARE for Life, which requires Part A and Part B.