The divorce process can be complicated. While it is always the final result when it appears like the marriage is irretrievably broken, it is not without its share of challenges. However, regardless of how complex the divorce process can be, it is important you consider the impact it can have on other areas of your life. Although health insurance usually isn’t at the top of the list of concerns, it should be if you are insured through your spouse’s employer. Read this article to learn about the potential impact of your divorce on your TRICARE benefits and understand if you will still be eligible for TRICARE benefits in Georgia.
TRICARE Sponsor Eligibility: What Impact Does Divorce Have on Sponsor Eligibility?
“A very common fear many people have with divorce and TRICARE benefits in Georgia is the possibility of it affecting their sponsor,” says attorney Shawna Woods of Atlanta Divorce Law Group. Surprisingly, divorce does not affect your sponsor’s eligibility, which may be calming news for you. However, if it does not affect your sponsor, it does not mean you do not have to do anything.
First, upon the successful dissolution of the marriage, you must provide an update on the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). You can do this by uploading a certified true copy of the annulment decree. Then, you will have to follow up on the changes the divorce will make to your TRICARE health plan.
How Much Impact Does the Duration of the Marriage Have on TRICARE Coverage?
Although it has been established that divorce does not affect your TRICARE sponsor, it is vital to also state that continued eligibility is not automatic. There are certain steps you must take and criteria you must meet for that to happen. One key factor is the marriage duration covered by the 20-20-15 and 20-20-20 rules.
Under the 20-20-20 rule, you keep TRICARE health benefits if you were married to a service member for at least 20 years, the service member served in the armed forces for at least 20 years, and the marriage and the period of service overlapped for at least 20 years. Under the 20-20-15 rule, you keep all TRICARE benefits for one year. Considering how technical the duration of marriage can be when determining eligibility for TRICARE benefits after a divorce, it is advised that you speak with an attorney to guide you.
TRICARE Eligibility: What Happens if You Enter Into Another Marriage After the Divorce?
Many people expect that after a divorce, provided they meet the conditions outlined in the 20-20-15 and 20-20-20 rules, they should continue to remain eligible for TRICARE benefits. While that is true to some extent, there are some exemptions. A military spouse who remarries loses all military benefits unless the remarriage is to another service member or retiree. Additionally, you will also lose your TRICARE eligibility if you are covered by an employer-sponsored health plan.
What Are the Next Steps To Take if One Loses TRICARE Benefits After a Divorce Process?
Although it would be great not to lose your TRICARE coverage following a divorce, losing it is not the end of the road. If that happens, you can consider several alternatives, like purchasing continued health care benefit program coverage within 60 days of losing your TRICARE coverage. Alternatively, you may explore eligibility for Medicaid in Georgia.
Conclusion
It is possible for you to get caught up in the divorce process and overlook important details. However, one key area you do not want to disregard is your TRICARE coverage. You have to ensure that you understand how it works and what your eligibility or that of your children will be after the divorce has been finalized. However, if you are still confused about some aspects of TRICARE benefits in Georgia, a divorce attorney can help you understand your situation and ensure you keep the benefits you are entitled to.
