Eligibility for TRICARE

Understanding the rules and administrative details about TRICARE eligibility will help you determine which program option best meets your needs. The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is the computerized database of the DoD that is used to determine TRICARE eligibility. DEERS holds information about military sponsors (i.e., active duty or retired service members), their eligible family members, and others worldwide who are entitled under the law to military benefits, including TRICARE. All eligible beneficiaries must be registered properly in DEERS and have a valid uniformed services identification (ID) card showing TRICARE eligibility.

This chapter outlines your options for: