If You're Married to a Service Member

If you're married to an active duty, retired, or National Guard or Reserve service member:

• You can continue to use TRICARE after your spouse separates from the military.
• You must be listed in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System as your spouse's dependent.
• Your spouse will be your sponsorThe term sponsor specifically refers to the active duty, retired or deceased service member whose military status entitles their dependents (spouse, children, etc.) to receive TRICARE health benefits..

To ensure you're eligible as your spouse's dependent after they separate:

• Call your local Uniformed Services ID card-issuing office to verify business hours or to set up an appointment.
• You can also set up an appointment online.
• Go to the ID card office with your spouse to be added to their DEERS record.

You'll get a new dependent ID card. If you have children and they're listed as your dependents in DEERS, they'll also need to be added as your spouse's dependents.

After you're added to DEERS with your spouse (or sponsor), you're eligible for TRICARE. Your health plan options are based on your sponsor's military status:

• Active Duty Service Members and Their Family Members
• Retired Service Members and Their Family Members
• National Guard and Reserve Members and Their Family Members
• Retired National Guard and Reserve Members and Their Family Members