Enroll in Medicare Part B to be TFL-Eligible
Planning to make the switch to TRICARE For Life (TFL)? There are no extra forms to fill out or fees to pay; however, you should know when to enroll into Medicare Part B in order to prevent a lapse in your TRICARE coverage.
TRICARE For Life and Medicare
While Medicare Part A is optional, TFL eligibility hinges
upon your enrollment in Medicare Part B. Once you are enrolled in TFL, you must
maintain your Medicare Part B eligibility to remain TFL-eligible.
If you already receive benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), you will automatically receive Medicare Part A and be enrolled in Part B starting the first day of the month following your 65th birthday.
If you are not currently receiving Social Security or RRB benefits, you must file for Part A and enroll in Part B. To avoid the Medicare surcharge for late enrollment, enrollment in Part B must be completed during the Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (seven-month period that begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after your 65th birthday). The Social Security Administration will send you a letter notifying you of your Medicare entitlement several weeks after filing.
Don’t Delay – Enroll Today
If you are eligible
for Medicare and TRICARE For Life, you can save money
by enrolling in Medicare Part B when you are first eligible. By delaying
enrollment in Medicare Part B, you may incur higher out-of-pocket costs for
medical care received while you are not covered. Additionally, Medicare Part B
monthly premiums may be higher. The monthly cost may go up 10% for each
12-month period that you could have been enrolled in Part B but were not.
TFL (MTF designated) and dual eligibles under the age of 65 who are dependents of Active Duty sponsors may need a statement of clarification that they fall under Medicare if enrolled. These beneficiaries do not need an authorization for care from TriWest, but are responsible for their care under Medicare policies.
For more information on TRICARE For Life, please visit www.tricare4u.com.
For information about Medicare, please call 1-800-772-1213.