Could I sign up for Tricare if I retire before 65 or would it be cheaper to buy Obamacare until Medicare kicks in?

2024-04-18T09:39:42-04:00

No service related disability at this time, but I'm a cold war nuclear weapons tech veteran, fingers crossed.

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Apr 18 at 2024 11:10 AM

2024-04-18T11:10:13-04:00

Tricare is for military, military retirees and dependents. Are you in one of those categories ?

Response by COL Randall C. made Apr 18 at 2024 11:53 AM

2024-04-18T11:53:23-04:00

From your profile, I'm 99.9% sure the answer is no as you don't meet any of the eligibility criteria for being enrolled in TRICARE (you're not currently an active member of the military or on the retired rolls) .

You should be able to enroll in VA Health Care as you're likely to meet the eligibility requirements* and there is no reason you wouldn't sign up as there are not costs associated unless you use it (i.e., no premiums or other monthly/annual fees). However if you don't have service-connected disability (rated 10%+) or you aren't below the income thresholds*, then you won't receive medical care currently.
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* VA Healthcare eligibility - https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/
* VA Income limits - https://www.va.gov/health-care/income-limits/zip

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