Retiring from Active Duty

When you retire due to an injury or otherwise, you may be eligible for health benefits through TRICARE and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

TRICARE Retirement Benefits

When you retire from active duty, you and your family stay eligible for TRICARE benefits. But your program options and costs may change. Learn more.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Retirement Benefits

TRICARE may be your main source of health care coverage. But you may be eligible for certain VA health benefits along with TRICARE. Learn more about using a VA TRICARE network provider by asking:

  • Your regional contractor, or
  • The TRICARE representative at your local VA facility

Keep in mind:

  • Many VA facilities are TRICARE network providers.
  • If eligible, you can receive care under either TRICARE or the VA.
  • Once you begin a treatment, you must continue to get care under that same program until the end of that episode of care.
  • There's no coordination of benefits between TRICARE and VA.
  • The rules and costs for each program you choose will apply.

Temporary and Permanent Disability Retirement Lists

If You Get Put On Then You Are And
Temporary Disability Retirement List A TRICARE-eligible retiree
Active Duty Orders for Evaluation Again considered active duty
Permanent Disability Retirement List A TRICARE-eligible retiree
  • You may also be eligible for certain VA benefits

Learn more.

Last Updated 5/12/2025