Rockn,
If nothing has changed since I started my coverage, TriCare Prime allows members to pay the full amount at the start of coverage ($460 for a family), or monthly (aprx $34.00 for family), or quarterly (aprx $115.00 for family).
I pay aprx $115.00 quarterly.
I attached information from one of AFPEBLO post that has more details:
While you are on TDRL you are entitled to the same medical benefits as any retiree (length of service or disability) however, you must enroll in one of the three TRICARE plans (Prime, Extra or Standard). When you say you ended up paying for TRICARE do you mean you enrolled in TRICARE Prime and paid the annual enrollment fee? Retirees (under 65), Their Family Members, and Others: TRICARE
Prime
Annual Deductible
None
Annual Enrollment Fee
$230/individual $460/family
Civilian Copays
Outpatient
Emergency Care
Mental Health Visit
$12
$30
$25
$17 (group visit)
Civilian Inpatient
Cost Share
$11/day
($25 minimum) Charge per admission
Civilian Inpatient Skilled Nursing Facility Care
$11/day
($25 minimum) charge per admission
Civilian Inpatient Mental Health
$40 per day