Dear Ms. Vicki,
I am a 70-year-old retired USN E-9 who is considering marriage for the first time. I spent 26 years in the Navy and another 21 with the DEA.
I can't seem to find anything about the benefits she would be entitled to; such as a military ID, medical and dental insurance, survivor benefits, etc. I would appreciate anything you can help with. Thanks in advance.
Sincerely,
Never Too Late for Love
Dear Never Too Late,
Congratulations! She must be a great a great woman to steal your heart!
Well, she should be able to get a retiree spouse ID card for commissary and exchange privileges and base access. When you register her in DEERS for that she'll also be registered with Tricare. If she's over 65, too, she'll use Tricare for Life just like you do. You'll want to call Tricare for help making sure she is registered for that.
If you are receiving a VA pension or VA benefits, then you will start receiving the pension "with a spouse," Other than that, I can't think of any other entitlements or benefits. If you find out differently, please share.
In the meantime, I would highly suggest you contact the VA, Tricare, etc. to make sure you have the correct information. I wish you all the best!
Sincerely,
Ms. Vicki
Correction: This article incorrectly identified healthcare benefits available to the new spouse of a retiree. Newlywed retiree spouses are entitled to Tricare.
