TRICARE For Life (TFL) is the coverage for Medicare-eligible military retirees and their eligible family members. It works as a secondary payer after Medicare.
Part B is required
To keep TRICARE coverage after becoming eligible for Medicare, you must have both Part A and Part B. If you drop Part B, you lose TRICARE For Life.
How claims work
- Medicare pays first for Medicare-covered services.
- TRICARE For Life pays most of the remaining cost sharing.
- For services TRICARE covers but Medicare does not, TRICARE pays first.
For most beneficiaries, this combination leaves little out-of-pocket cost for covered care.
Do you need Medigap?
Usually not. TRICARE For Life already pays most of what Medigap would cover. Paying Medigap premiums on top is often wasted money. Exceptions are rare; ask TRICARE before buying.
Pharmacy
TRICARE pharmacy benefits are creditable for Part D, so you do not need Part D to avoid a penalty.
Medicare Advantage
You can join a Medicare Advantage plan, but TFL coordinates differently with it. Most TFL beneficiaries stay with Original Medicare plus TFL for simplicity. For the general picture of Medicare parts, see Parts A, B, C and D.
Questions people ask
Is Part B required for TRICARE For Life?
Yes. You must have Parts A and B.
Do TFL beneficiaries need Medigap?
Usually not; TFL covers most Medicare cost sharing.
Is TRICARE pharmacy creditable for Part D?
Yes.
Who pays first?
Medicare for Medicare-covered services; TRICARE for services only it covers.
Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.