Health care after service

Coverage gaps are one of the most common transition surprises. Sort this out before your last day, not after.

If you're retiring

Retirees and their families can keep TRICARE, but the plan options and costs change when you retire. Enrollment rules have deadlines, so check TRICARE's retiree page before your retirement date.

If you're separating

• Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) gives 180 days of transitional TRICARE coverage to some separating members, such as those separating involuntarily or certain Reserve members coming off active duty. Check whether you qualify.
• Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) is paid coverage you can buy for a limited time after TRICARE or TAMP ends. There's a short window to sign up.
• Your new employer's plan, or the marketplace at healthcare.gov. Losing military coverage counts as a qualifying event for special enrollment.

Enroll in VA health care

Many veterans qualify for VA health care, and recent law expanded eligibility for many who served in combat zones or were exposed to toxins. Apply on VA.gov even if you have other insurance. Being enrolled makes it easier if you need it later.

Mental health

• Vet Centers offer free, confidential counseling for eligible veterans, service members and their families, separate from VA medical centers.
• Military OneSource offers free non-medical counseling for up to 365 days after separation.
• Veterans & Military Crisis Line: dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255. In Europe, call 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118.

Dental and vision

Dental coverage often ends with separation. Get a cleaning and any work done while you're still in, and look at FEDVIP or private plans for after.

Official sources: tricare.mil, va.gov/health-care, vetcenter.va.gov, militaryonesource.mil.