Turning 65 with CHAMPVA: Medicare Parts A and B and the notice of disallowance

Educational information only, not medical, legal, or insurance advice. Confirm with CHAMPVA and your provider. Last verified against VA.gov: October 9, 2026 (VA page updated Aug 12, 2026). Changelog

Short answer: when you become eligible for Medicare, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B (or a Medicare Advantage plan) to keep CHAMPVA. Part D is optional.

What to do before your 65th birthday

1. Enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B through Social Security.
2. Send CHAMPVA proof: VA Form 10-7959c plus copies of the front and back of your Medicare card (and your Part D card if you have one). See Other insurance.
3. If you’re not eligible for Medicare at 65, get a “notice of disallowance” from the Social Security Administration and send it to CHAMPVA. It shows you don’t qualify for Medicare under anyone’s Social Security number.

Before 65?

You can become eligible for Medicare early if you get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or have end-stage kidney disease or ALS. The same Part A and B rule applies then.

How payment works after 65

• Medicare pays first; CHAMPVA is the secondary payer.
• CHAMPVA may cover some or all of your Medicare Part B deductible, but not your Part B premiums.
• Part D is not required. If you have Part D, you can’t use Meds by Mail.
• If you’re eligible for Medicare, you can’t get care through VA’s CITI program.

Printable version: Turning 65 checklist.