TRICARE for Life

TRICARE for Life

While Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States, enrollment in both Medicare Parts A and B is a mandatory requirement to maintain eligibility for TRICARE for Life. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Must You Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B?

• Eligibility Requirement: TRICARE for Life serves as a supplement to Medicare. To be eligible for TFL, you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), even if you live overseas where Medicare coverage doesn’t apply.

• No Exceptions: Without Medicare enrollment, you lose access to TFL benefits, which are critical for covering healthcare costs abroad.

How to Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B:

1. Initial Enrollment Period:

   • You’re eligible to enroll in Medicare starting three months before your 65th birthday and up to three months after the month you turn 65.

2. Late Enrollment Penalty:

   • Failing to enroll in Part B when eligible may result in a lifetime penalty added to your monthly premium.

3. Enrollment Process:

   • Contact the Federal Benefits Unit in Rome, see webpage for details to apply for Medicare Part B. 

   • If you already receive Social Security benefits, enrollment in Medicare Part A and Part B is automatic unless you are a foreign born spouse, see note below for more information. 

How to Enroll in TRICARE for Life

Once you’re enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, the process for enrolling in TRICARE for Life is straightforward:

1. Verify TRICARE Eligibility:

   • Ensure you’re listed as eligible for TRICARE in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Update your DEERS information as needed. Verify status on the MilConnect website, see link below. 

2. Pay Medicare Part B Premiums:

   • Continue paying your monthly Medicare Part B premiums, as this is required to maintain TFL coverage.

NOTE: Spouses residing in Italy who don't have American citizenship may apply and enroll in Medicare Part B. This is contrary to Medicare guidance which states foreign spouses are ineligible. 

3. Automatic Enrollment:

   • Enrollment in TRICARE for Life is automatic once you have Medicare Parts A and B and your DEERS information is up to date. No additional application is required. Verify status on the MilConnect website, see link below.