Medical Retirement

Event TRICARE Qualifying Life Event?

Medically Retiring

Yes.

You have 90 days after your retirement date to enroll in a health plan.

If you’re medically retired, you can get TRICARE benefits as a retired service member. You must be on the:

  • Temporary Disabled Retirement List, or
  • Permanent Disability Retirement List

Also, your family members may be able to get TRICARE as retiree family members. Keep your family’s information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System updated.

If you have an injury or condition, your service will:

  • Evaluate your health problem.
  • Determine if you’re on one of the lists above.
  • Rate your disability. (This rating is different from your Department of Veterans Affairs disability rating.)

Is your service disability rating is less than 30%? You’ll separate from active duty, not retire. Once you separate, you may apply for these temporary health plans:

Don't lose your TRICARE benefits!

If you become eligible for Medicare under age 65 for a disability or any other reason, you must have Medicare Part B to keep TRICARE. Learn more about Medicare and TRICARE.

Last Updated 2/26/2026