The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System is a computer-based eligibility data system for people entitled to medical care benefits. DEERS is also designed to eliminate fraud, waste and abuse in the use of health benefits and privileges.
Guard and Reserve Airmen, as well as retirees and Reserve retirees can enroll family members in DEERS at their nearest military personnel element customer service office.
Spouses will need their birth certificate, marriage certificate and two forms of identification. They must also present tour orders for identification purposes if sponsor is on active duty.
Children ages 21 and younger need their birth certificate.
Children ages 21-23 also require a letter from a college or university’s registrar stating the number of credits the student is taking, the degree they are pursuing and the estimated graduation date.
Guard and Reserve Airmen on active duty for 31 days or more must go to the customer service section of the nearest military personnel element to register themselves and eligible family members in DEERS. NOTE: MPFs are not authorized to load your contingency orders.
Obtain a copy of the completed DD Form 1172 from the MPF.
Since DEERS is used to verify TRICARE claims and eligibility for treatment in military medical facilities, reservists must comply or they could be denied medical treatment or TRICARE claims.
Retired Reserve
Airmen awaiting retired pay at age 60 can obtain information to enroll family members in DEERS by contacting any military installation.
Airmen Receiving Retired Pay
When they reach age 60, retirees should contact the nearest military installation to obtain a retired (blue) ID card for them, a former Airman would receive a tan DD Form 1173, and ID cards for eligible family members. Members must bring a copy of their retired pay orders. Follow the instructions above for Reservists on active-duty tours.
Airmen and eligible family members are automatically enrolled in DEERS when the cards are issued.