Tricare Open Season excludes active duty and five groups

Tricare Open Season 2026 is underway, but significant restrictions apply. Active duty service members, Tricare for Life enrollees, and three additional groups cannot make changes during this window. Those affected will have to wait until next year's open season if they want to switch between Prime, Select, or Standard plans.

Eligible beneficiaries who can participate have a limited timeframe to adjust their coverage. Switching plans during Open Season may help reduce costs or match changing healthcare needs, but those locked out of the process could remain in plans that no longer suit their situation without access to changes until the next enrollment period arrives.