Is TRICARE for Life worth it?


Editorial team Published on

TRICARE For Life (TFL) is widely considered an exceptional healthcare value because it has no enrollment fees or annual premiums, functioning as a secondary "wraparound" coverage to Medicare.

How TRICARE For Life Works

  • Automatic Coverage: You do not need to fill out enrollment forms or pay a separate TRICARE fee. Coverage begins automatically once you turn 65 and have both Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance) active.
  • Cost Sharing: In the United States, Medicare pays first for covered services, and TFL picks up nearly all remaining out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance).
  • No Network Restrictions: You can see any authorized Medicare provider without needing a primary care manager or referrals.

The Cost Catch (Medicare Part B)

While TFL itself is free, maintaining it requires you to pay the monthly Medicare Part B premium.

  • This premium is mandatory to keep TFL.
  • The exact price depends on your income level.

Is It Worth It?

Yes, compared to civilian Medigap (supplemental) plans or Medicare Advantage plans, TFL typically offers vastly superior coverage with zero or minimal out-of-pocket medical bills for covered services, plus a built-in pharmacy program. For most military retirees, opting out of Part B means losing TFL entirely, making enrollment a standard financial no-brainer.