Are you leaving the fire service soon? Or do you know of others departing soon? We’re excited to announce MnFIRE is here to keep supporting the physical and mental health of all Minnesota firefighters in their next chapters.

As of August 1, 2026, Minnesota firefighters who leave or retire from the fire service on or after that date will be eligible to extend their Hometown Heroes Assistance Program benefits directly through the MnFIRE Benefits Extension Program at a cost below market rate.

Eligible firefighters will have 45 days from their last date of fire service to enroll at mnfireinitiative.com/extendmybenefits. Enrollees will be able to purchase benefits a la carte based on their individual needs. The options include:

Counseling and mental health support – up to an additional 12 months

Firefighters can extend their counseling and mental health support benefit through the MnFIRE Assistance Program for up to 12 months after leaving the fire service. They – and any member of their household – can continue receiving up to five counseling visits per issue for one full calendar year. This confidential program includes access to MnFIRE’s network of trauma-informed mental health providers. A one-time payment of $50 is required to enroll, which covers both the firefighter and family members in their household.

Critical Illness Program – available for annual renewal, up to age 70

Firefighters can continue their critical illness insurance policy through MnFIRE, which provides a lump-sum cash payment up to $20,000 per diagnosis of covered critical illnesses, such as a heart attack, cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more. Pricing for this benefit is age-banded. Former and retired firefighters can renew this critical illness policy annually until age 69, with coverage terminating at age 70.

Peer Support – always available

MnFIRE’s Peer Support Program is always available to all active and former Minnesota firefighters at no cost, and no enrollment needed. Confidential support is one call away to trained and trusted peers, who can offer a listening ear and guidance through challenges related to the fire service or everyday life. Firefighters can reach out for assistance at 888-784-6634.

Once enrolled in the MnFIRE Benefits Extension Program, former and retired firefighters can access their benefits the same way as active firefighters by calling the MnFIRE helpline at 888-784-6634. Select option 1 for counseling visits, option 2 for Peer Support or option 3 for the Critical Illness Program.

A recent MnFIRE survey conducted by The Improve Group found 85% of Minnesota firefighter respondents think it would “very helpful” to have extended access to health and wellness benefits after leaving the fire service. One respondent advocated for extended critical illness insurance, noting, “I can’t tell you how many retirees lately have been diagnosed with cancer within one to two years after retirement in my department.”

Another respondent described how transitioning away from the fire service can lead to a lost sense of value and purpose. He said, “The mental health services MnFIRE offers are key to supporting people through this time.”

We’re listening to your feedback! MnFIRE is here for you, even after you leave the fire service.

Learn more and extend your benefits after you leave the fire service at mnfireinitiative.com/extendmybenefits.