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Navigating the Cost of Tricare Young Adults can be complex, especially with the changes coming in 2026. Military families with dependents aged 21 to 26 need to understand the nuanced pricing structure and options available for healthcare coverage.
Understanding Tricare Young Adult Program
The Tricare Young Adult program provides health insurance for adult children of military sponsors, offering two primary plan options: Tricare Young Adult-Prime and Tricare Young Adult-Select. In 2026, these plans come with specific costs and considerations that families should carefully review.
Monthly Premium Costs
For 2026, the monthly premiums for Tricare Young Adult plans are as follows:
- Tricare Young Adult-Prime: $794 per individual
- Tricare Young Adult-Select: $363 per individual
Key Differences in Plan Structures
Active Duty Sponsor Status
For dependents of active duty sponsors or TRICARE Reserve Select enrollees: - Prime Plan Highlights: - $0 annual deductible - $0 for network primary care visits - $1,324 annual catastrophic cap
- Select Plan Highlights:
- Annual deductible varies
- E-1 through E-4: $66 per individual
- E-5 and above: $198 per individual
- $19 for network primary care visits
- Annual deductible varies
Retired Sponsor Status
For dependents of retired sponsors or TRICARE Retired Reserve enrollees: - Prime Plan Characteristics: - $0 annual deductible - $26 for network primary care visits - $4,635 annual catastrophic cap
- Select Plan Features:
- Annual deductible
- $198 for network
- $397 for non-network
- $33 for network primary care visits
- Annual deductible
Important Considerations
🔍 Note: Except for monthly premiums, all Tricare Young Adult costs follow Group B pricing, which depends on the sponsor's status and plan option.
Cost Variations
- Network vs. Non-network providers have different cost-sharing structures
- Prescription costs contribute to the annual deductible
- Copayments and cost-shares vary based on service type
Enrollment and Open Season
TRICARE Open Season for 2026 runs from November 10 to December 9, providing an opportunity to review and adjust healthcare coverage. Changes made during this period will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Who is eligible for Tricare Young Adult?
+Dependents between ages 21 and 26 of military sponsors, who are no longer eligible for standard dependent coverage.
Can I switch between Prime and Select plans?
+Yes, during the TRICARE Open Season, you can change your plan. Changes take effect on January 1 of the following year.
Do costs differ for active duty vs. retired sponsors?
+Yes, costs vary based on the sponsor's status, pay grade, and whether they are active duty, retired, or a reserve member.
Understanding these details can help military families make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage for young adult dependents in 2026.
