Parts A + BRequired for TRICARE for Life
SeparateVA and Medicare do not coordinate
CreditableVA drug coverage counts for Part D
NoVA coverage does not avoid a Part B penalty
Quick comparison
| Program | How it works with Medicare | Do you need Part B? |
|---|---|---|
| VA health care | Works separately. Medicare generally does not pay for VA care, and VA generally does not pay for care from Medicare providers unless the VA authorizes it | Optional, but delaying can mean a late penalty |
| TRICARE for Life (military retirees age 65+) | Medicare pays first; TRICARE for Life pays much of what remains | Required (Parts A and B) |
| CHAMPVA (some survivors and dependents) | Medicare pays first; CHAMPVA second | Generally required if you are 65 or older |
VA care and Medicare
You can use both, but they do not share payments. Each pays only for care it provides or authorizes. Many veterans keep Medicare so they can see community doctors, travel, and be covered for care the VA does not provide.
- Part B penalty: VA coverage does not count as employer coverage, so it does not protect you from the Part B late enrollment penalty. See the Part B penalty guide.
- Part D: VA prescription coverage is generally creditable, so you do not owe a Part D penalty if you have it. Keep the notice that confirms this.
TRICARE for Life
If you are a military retiree (or eligible family member) age 65 or older, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B to keep TRICARE coverage. Enroll in Part B when you become eligible, and pay the Part B premium ($202.90 in 2026). TRICARE for Life has no separate enrollment fee, and it generally covers most of the 20% that Medicare leaves.
Active-duty family members
Spouses and family members who are not yet 65 may be covered by TRICARE. When they reach 65, they need Part B to keep TRICARE coverage as TRICARE for Life.
What to do
- Check your eligibility at the VA or TRICARE before your 65th birthday.
- Enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period if you have TRICARE for Life or CHAMPVA.
- Ask the VA whether using Medicare providers affects your VA benefits.
- Keep proof of your drug coverage status each year.
Missing Part B can cost you TRICARE for Life. If you do not have Part B when required, you can lose TRICARE for Life coverage, and getting it back can mean paying the Part B penalty.
Veterans with low income may also qualify for help paying Medicare costs. See Medicare Savings Programs.