My Sponsor or Family Was Covered by TRICARE Reserve Select on the Day of the Sponsor's Death

You may get TRICARE Reserve Select coverage for:

• Up to three years if your sponsor died on or after Oct. 1, 2025
• Up to six months if your sponsor died before Oct. 1, 2025

If You Already Have TRICARE Reserve Select

• Your family member coverage automatically changes to survivor coverage.
• You’ll get a letter from Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System telling you about the change.
• Your coverage begins on the day after your sponsor’s death.

If You Don’t Already Have TRICARE Reserve Select

If only your sponsor had TRICARE Reserve Select when they died:

• You can buy TRICARE Reserve Select coverage within 90 days of your sponsor’s death.
• You’ll get a letter from DEERS telling you about the option to buy survivor coverage.
• Your coverage begins on the day after your sponsor’s death.

You have 90 days after your sponsor’s death to send your application. It must be postmarked or received by the end of the 90 days.

The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program doesn’t affect your survivor coverage

Loss of Coverage

You need to keep minimum essential coverage under the Affordable Care Act. After you lose TRS coverage, you can:

• Purchase temporary coverage under the Continued Health Care Benefit Program.
• Use health insurance through an employer.
• Use Medicaid.
• Use a plan offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Dental Coverage

You’re eligible for the TRICARE Dental Program Survivor Benefit Plan.