Transferring Prescriptions to TRICARE: 2026 Guide | TRICARE.com

*TRICARE.com is an independent reference site and is not affiliated with the Department of Defense. For official policy, visit TRICARE.mil.*

## Quick answer To transfer a prescription to TRICARE, you have three options: move it to a Military Pharmacy for $0, use Express Scripts Home Delivery (mail order), or use a TRICARE retail network pharmacy. You can initiate the transfer by calling the Express Scripts member choice line, using the Express Scripts mobile app, or bringing your current prescription bottle directly to a military pharmacist.

Details

Moving your prescriptions depends largely on where you want the medicine to come from. Under the 2026 pharmacy contract, Express Scripts remains the primary manager for these services.

### 1. Transferring to a Military Pharmacy (Best Value) This is the most cost-effective option because there is **no copay ($0)** for any formulary drug. * **How to do it:** Bring your current prescription bottle (with the old pharmacy's information) to the military treatment facility (MTF) pharmacy. The pharmacist will contact your old pharmacy or your doctor to verify the refill status. * **Limitation:** Not all medications are stocked at every MTF. Check the [TRICARE Formulary Search Tool](https://www.express-scripts.com/tform) before you go.

### 2. Transferring to TRICARE Home Delivery Home delivery is managed by Express Scripts and is usually the cheapest option after military pharmacies. * **How to do it:** Use the "Switch to Home Delivery" feature on the Express Scripts website or mobile app. Alternatively, call **1-877-363-1303**. * **2026 Rates:** In 2026, a 90-day supply typically costs **$16** for generics, **$43** for brand-name formulary drugs, and **$76** for non-formulary drugs (Group A/B retirees). Active duty service members always pay $0.

### 3. Transferring to a Retail Network Pharmacy If you prefer a local pharmacy (like CVS, Walgreens, or a grocery store pharmacy), ensure they are in the TRICARE network. * **How to do it:** Simply call your new pharmacy and provide them with your current pharmacy’s name and the prescription number found on your label. You will need to show your Military ID (CAC or USID card) as your pharmacy benefit card. * **2026 Rates:** A 30-day supply at a retail network pharmacy costs **$16** for generics and **$43** for brand names (based on 2026 standards for retirees).

### Special Case: Moving from Civilian Insurance to TRICARE If you are a new beneficiary (e.g., a new spouse or newly retired), you generally cannot "transfer" the plan itself. You must provide your doctor with your new TRICARE coverage information and have them send new electronic prescriptions (e-prescribing) directly to Express Scripts or your chosen military pharmacy.

## Who this affects * **Active Duty Service Members:** Lowest priority for mail order (usually use MTFs), but can transfer to network pharmacies if needed (usually $0). * **Active Duty Family Members:** Can use any of the three methods. * **Retirees and their Families:** Most common users of the transfer process for Home Delivery. * **National Guard and Reserve:** Members on active duty or enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select. * **Survivors:** Eligible beneficiaries maintaining pharmacy coverage.

## Sources * **TRICARE.mil:** [Filling Prescriptions](https://www.tricare.mil/Pharmacy/FillPrescriptions) * **Express Scripts:** [TRICARE Pharmacy Home Page](https://militaryrx.express-scripts.com/) * **Defense Health Agency (DHA):** [Pharmacy Operations Division](https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Access-Cost-Quality-and-Safety/Access-to-Healthcare/Pharmacy) * **TriWest Healthcare Alliance:** [West Region Pharmacy Information](https://www.triwest.com)