Q. I retired from active duty after 24½ years and immediately started as a federal employee, for 7½ years now. I’ve never elected Federal Employees Health Benefits coverage because I’m enrolled in Tricare Overseas. I’m planning to retire at MRA+10 in 2½ years at age 57½.
1. If I begin enrollment now in FEHB and retire at my minimum retirement age in 2½ years, can I count the time in Tricare toward the five-year enrollment requirement for FEHB?
2. If I don’t enroll in FEHB now, can I count my time in Tricare for the entire FEHB five-year enrollment requirement and get FEHB in retirement by paying premiums then?
A. 1. Yes.
2. No.
