Changes coming to Tricare Retiree Dental Program

Starting Oct. 1, military retirees enrolled in the Tricare Retiree Dental Program will need to pay their monthly premiums either by electronic funds transfer or allotment.

Last week, plan management contractor Delta Dental of California notified beneficiaries who pay by check or through an online bill payment system of the impending change.

Those who must switch can submit an electronic funds transfer authorization online at the plan’s website or set up an allotment through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

Delta Dental of California was awarded several contracts in late 2012 worth more than $2.6 billion to continue managing the military’s retiree dental program through 2018.

In additions to the new pay requirements, beneficiaries will see several changes starting Jan. 1, including:

■A decrease in monthly premiums.

■An increase in the annual maximum allowable amount per person to $1,300, up from $1,200.

■An increase in the annual maximum allowable amount for dental accident care to $1,200, up from $1,000, and.

■A rise in the lifetime allowable amount for orthodontics, from $1,500 to $1,750.

A series of contracts also has aligned Delta Dental of California’s contract years with beneficiary coverage and payments, from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, rather than Oct. 1 through Sept. 30.

Tricare reminds beneficiaries to make sure their personal information is correct in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility System to avoid any delays in claims reimbursements. DEERS is responsible for verifying eligibility and enrollment.

TRDP premiums are based on geographic residence and number of family members enrolled.