Separating from Active Duty
You and your family members may be able to get additional benefits once you separate from active duty.
Transitional Health Care Benefits
Transitional Assistance Management Program:
- If you qualify, you get transitional healthcare benefits for 180 days.
- The 180-day TAMP period begins when you separate.
- Learn more about TAMP.
Continued Health Care Benefit Program:
- CHCBP is a temporary, premium-based healthcare program.
- It offers 18-36 months of coverage after TRICARE eligibility ends.
- If you qualify, you can purchase CHCBP within 60 days of loss of eligibility for either regular TRICARE or TAMP coverage.
- Learn more about CHCBP.
Veterans Affairs Benefits
You may be eligible for VA benefits, if you
- Serve on active duty, and
- Receive an honorable discharge or release from service, or
- Are a National Guard or Reserve member called to active duty by federal executive order
Did you serve on active duty in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998?
- You’re eligible for two years of no-cost health care for conditions related to your combat service.
- Your care begins on the date you separate from active duty.
- At the end of two years, the VA will assess your eligibility status.
- Some family members may be eligible for health benefits from the VA.
You can apply for VA health benefits:
- In person, at any VA Medical Center
- Online, by visiting www.va.gov/healtheligibility/application
- On the phone, by calling 877-222-VETS (8387) toll-free
Visit www.va.gov for more information.
Last Updated 4/17/2025