KEY TAKEAWAYS Active duty families pay $0 enrollment for both Prime and Select — the cost difference only becomes meaningful for retirees, who pay $765/year for Prime vs. $375/year for Select (Group A families). TRICARE Prime is an HMO-style plan — lower copays and a $3,000 catastrophic cap, but requires a primary care manager (PCM) and referrals for specialists. Not available … [Read more...] about TRICARE Prime vs. Select 2026: Which Plan Is Right for You?
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The Post-9/11 GI Bill: Complete Guide to Benefits, Rates, and Eligibility
KEY TAKEAWAYS •The Post-9/11 GI Bill pays tuition directly to your school, a monthly housing allowance to you, and up to $1,000/year for books and supplies — three separate payment streams. •You need a minimum of 90 days of active duty after September 10, 2001, and an honorable discharge. Benefits are tiered — 36+ months of service unlocks 100%. •For 2025-2026, private school … [Read more...] about The Post-9/11 GI Bill: Complete Guide to Benefits, Rates, and Eligibility
Military Fertility Benefits: What TRICARE and the VA Actually Cover
KEY TAKEAWAYS •TRICARE covers Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), including IVF, but only for service members whose infertility is caused by a qualifying service-connected injury or illness — not for general infertility. •A 2024 DoD policy change expanded ART eligibility to unmarried service members and same-sex couples, and now permits donated sperm, eggs, and … [Read more...] about Military Fertility Benefits: What TRICARE and the VA Actually Cover
2026 TRICARE Costs: Complete Guide to Premiums, Copays, and Pharmacy Fees
Key Takeaways TRICARE Prime and Select costs increased ~2-3% for 2026, tied to the 2.8% retiree COLA Active duty members pay nothing for healthcare; family members may have copays Group A vs. Group B matters: Group A (entered before Jan 1, 2018) generally has lower costs Pharmacy copays increased $1-$9 depending on drug type and pharmacy location TRICARE Reserve Select … [Read more...] about 2026 TRICARE Costs: Complete Guide to Premiums, Copays, and Pharmacy Fees
Tricare Changes in 2025: Your Complete Guide to Updates
As the new year approaches, it's wise to evaluate your family's health care benefit. Understanding Tricare changes in 2025 is essential for military families and retirees. This post helps you understand these changes, so you can make informed decisions about your health care. Staying informed on Tricare changes in 2025 is particularly important. It affects your access to … [Read more...] about Tricare Changes in 2025: Your Complete Guide to Updates