Frequently Asked
Why isn't TFL paying my claims?
Almost always a DEERS issue. Verify in milConnect that both your Medicare Part A and Part B effective dates are listed.
Nine times out of ten, the problem is DEERS.
Walk through this checklist:
- Log into milConnect with your DS Logon.
- Go to My Profile → Medical.
- Confirm both Medicare Part A and Part B effective dates are listed.
- If either is missing, contact DMDC (1-800-538-9552) or visit a local ID card office with your Medicare card.
Other common causes:
- The provider isn't enrolled with Medicare (TFL won't pay if Medicare didn't).
- The service isn't TRICARE-covered (a rare overlap gap).
- The claim was filed for an MTF (which doesn't bill TFL).
For specific claim questions, call WPS at 1-866-773-0404 — they administer TFL claims.
Continue learning
— suggested by the knowledge graph Lessons
- What is Medicare? A complete overview for retired militaryA plain-English, handbook-grounded overview of the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, written specifically for retired service members and their families.
- What is TRICARE For Life? The complete guide for retired militaryThe Medicare-wraparound benefit you earned through service — what it covers, who qualifies, what it costs, and how it activates.
- Enrolling in Medicare: timing, methods, and the military-specific rulesWhen and how to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B — and the timing that protects your TRICARE For Life activation.
Encyclopedia
- Medicare Part AThe hospital insurance side of Original Medicare — covers inpatient stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health.
- Medicare Part BThe medical insurance side of Original Medicare — covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
- TRICARE For Life (TFL)The wraparound secondary health coverage for Medicare-eligible military retirees, spouses, and survivors — no premium, no enrollment fee.
- Military Treatment Facility (MTF) & Space-Available CareDoD military hospitals and clinics — at 65, retirees can only be seen if appointments aren't needed by active duty or TRICARE Prime enrollees.
FAQs
- Can I keep seeing military doctors?At many MTFs, routine primary care after 65 becomes space-available; some MTFs also offer TRICARE Plus based on local capacity.
- Will TRICARE pay my Medicare deductible?Yes. For services covered by both Medicare and TRICARE at participating providers, TFL typically covers the Medicare deductible and coinsurance — leaving you with $0.
- Can my spouse stay on TRICARE?Yes. Spouses retain TRICARE eligibility for life — but the program they're on changes based on their own age and Medicare status.
Related glossary terms
Related Official Resources
Continue learning straight from the source. Every link below goes to an official government or DoD resource.
Last reviewed January 2026 against the 2026 Medicare & You and TRICARE For Life handbooks.