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What You Need to Know About Tricare Open Enrollment

By Amanda Miller· Military.com - Benefits ·Friday, August 21, 2026 ·1 min read

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What You Need to Know About Tricare Open Enrollment

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Tricare open enrollment, also known as Tricare open season, runs each year from mid-November through mid-December. For 2026, those dates are Nov. 9 to Dec.

Originally reported by Military.com - Benefits. Read the original article →

Our analysis

Tricare open enrollment provides a crucial opportunity for military families and veterans to reassess their healthcare coverage and make changes as needed. During this period, beneficiaries can enroll in a new plan, change their current plan, or cancel their coverage without incurring penalties. For those navigating the complexities of Tricare, open enrollment is a chance to evaluate the various plans, including Prime, Extra, Standard, and Plus, and determine which one best suits their healthcare needs and budget. It is essential for beneficiaries to carefully review the different plans and their associated costs, as well as any changes to coverage or provider networks, to ensure they are making an informed decision. By taking advantage of open enrollment, military families and veterans can optimize their healthcare benefits and make the most of the Tricare program. This annual enrollment period is a key component of managing one's benefits and healthcare coverage.

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