Glossary
TRICARE For Life (TFL)
The wraparound secondary health coverage for Medicare-eligible military retirees, spouses, and survivors — no premium, no enrollment fee.
Also known as: TFL, Tricare for Life
What is it?
TRICARE For Life is the DoD's Medicare-wraparound program administered by the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and processed by Wisconsin Physicians Service (WPS). It acts as the secondary payer to Medicare for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who have both Medicare Parts A and B.
Why does it matter?
TFL is the single most valuable retirement health benefit for career military families. It eliminates almost all out-of-pocket cost on Medicare-covered services and adds coverage Medicare doesn't include (like care overseas).
When you'll encounter it
TFL replaces TRICARE Prime, Select, or Retired Reserve the day you become eligible for Medicare (typically age 65). There is no application — coverage activates automatically once DEERS shows Medicare A and B.
Impact on Medicare
Medicare pays first. TFL only sees claims that have already been processed by Medicare (via electronic crossover from CMS to WPS).
Impact on TRICARE For Life
TFL is the program itself.
Impact on Medicare Advantage
If you join MA, TFL stays in place and becomes secondary to the MA plan — same wraparound role, just behind a different primary payer.
Common misconceptions
- "I have to enroll in TFL." — TFL is automatic. Make sure DEERS is current and you have Parts A and B — that's all.
- "TFL costs money." — Zero enrollment fee and no monthly premium. You only pay the Medicare Part B premium (to Medicare, not TRICARE).
Related lessons
Related glossary terms
Official sources
Last reviewed January 2026 against the 2026 Medicare & You and TRICARE For Life handbooks.