What Happens to Your TRICARE Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Spouse coverage
May retain for 3 years
Children
Coverage may continue
Contact
1-844-866-9378
Step-by-Step Guide
Do NOT cancel immediately
Surviving spouse may retain TRICARE coverage for up to 3 years (or longer with remarriage rules). Contact TRICARE at 1-844-866-9378 before making any changes.
Update DEERS record
Report the death to DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) at the nearest military ID card office to update dependent eligibility.
Document Now Checklist
- TRICARE plan type (Prime, Select, For Life)
- Sponsor SSN and DoD ID
- Current covered dependents
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with TRICARE. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
Social Security
Social Security must be notified of death immediately. Benefits paid after death must be returned. Survivor benefits may be available.
IRS / Tax Returns
A final individual tax return must be filed for the year of death. Estates over $13.61M may owe federal estate tax.
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Veterans are entitled to burial benefits, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate — all at no cost.
Protect your TRICARE account — and all your others
Document your digital life in a zero-knowledge encrypted vault. 1,800+ platform guides. Dead Man's Switch. Everything your family needs.
Start your free trial →