Open enrollment for 2026 Tricare coverage will take place on time despite the government shutdown, officials told Military.com, while some Tricare services under existing plans are already suspended or likely delayed.
The monthlong open enrollment period is scheduled for Nov. 10-Dec. 9. During open enrollment, or open season, beneficiaries may make changes to their Tricare coverage for the upcoming year. Tricare users who want to keep the same coverage don’t need to do anything during open enrollment.
However, the Defense Health Agency announced that some Tricare services are suspended or may be delayed during the shutdown, including the potential for delayed or cancelled outpatient appointments at military hospitals.
The agency, which administers Tricare, published a tracker to communicate service delays or interruptions.
As of Oct. 22, for inpatient services including surgeries, the agency reported: “No changes for now. Contact your provider to confirm any procedures you have scheduled.”
But the shutdown had affected Tricare’s ability to pay claims; the Tricare Prime Travel Benefit, which reimburses Prime members for certain travel costs to reach a provider; administrative actions such as appeals and other determinations; and potentially outpatient appointments and pharmacy hours at military hospitals.
Claims: “Tricare may not be able to process or pay medical claims for services received on or after Oct. 1, 2025, until funding is restored,” according to the tracker.
Tricare Prime Travel Benefit: “Not available. If you must travel for care, save your receipts, and you may file for reimbursement for reasonable travel expenses for a qualified trip.”
Administrative actions: “Government administrative actions” such as “appeals, line of duty determinations, and grievances, may be delayed or paused due to staffing levels.”
Military hospital outpatient visits, including for labs and for primary and specialty appointments: “There may be changes in hours or services. Your hospital or clinic will contact you if they must cancel an appointment. Contact your military hospital or clinic to confirm sick call or walk-in clinic hours.”
How to Change Tricare Coverage During Open Enrollment
Tricare beneficiaries may enroll in a Tricare plan or change their plan during open enrollment in one of the following ways:
- Online at MilConnect, milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/.
- By calling their Tricare regional contractor.
- By mailing or faxing an enrollment form provided during open enrollment.
Keep Up with Changes to Tricare and Your Other Benefits
Want to know about changes in military benefits as they happen? Subscribe to Military.com to get the latest benefits news delivered directly straight to your inbox.
