Benefits Extension Program

MnFIRE is here for you, even after you leave the fire service.

Starting August 1, 2026, Minnesota firefighters who leave or retire from the fire service on or after that date can extend their Hometown Heroes Assistance Program benefits, at a cost below market rate.

These benefits are the same resources that help you prioritize and protect your physical and mental health, available directly through MnFIRE – including the Critical Illness Program, counseling through the MnFIRE Assistance Program and Peer Support. Each benefit can be purchased a la carte, so you have flexibility to choose the coverage that best suits your needs in this new chapter. See individual enrollment details below.

NOTE: You only have 45 days from the date you leave the fire service to enroll in these portable benefits.

Once enrolled in the MnFIRE Benefits Extension Program, you can access your benefits the same way as when you were an active firefighter. Just call the MnFIRE helpline at 888-784-6634.

Critical Illness Program

Firefighters who are leaving or retiring from the fire service can continue their critical illness insurance policy through MnFIRE within 45 days after leaving the Minnesota fire service. The policy 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.

ENROLL IN THE CRITICAL ILLNESS PROGRAM

To enroll in the Critical Illness Program, print and fill out the portability application form linked below and send directly to Securian, following the instructions provided. Once your application is received, Securian will reach out to your department to confirm eligibility. Securian will bill you directly and your policy will automatically renew annually as long as premiums are paid.

ENROLL IN THE CRITICAL ILLNESS PROGRAM

MnFIRE Assistance Program

Firefighters who are leaving or retiring from the fire service can extend their counseling and mental health support benefit for 12 months after leaving the Minnesota fire service. After enrolling within 45 days of leaving the fire service for a one-time fee of $50, former firefighters – 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 continued access to our network of trauma-informed mental health providers, trained to address the unique experiences of the fire service.

ENROLL IN THE MnFIRE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

To enroll in the MnFIRE Assistance Program, fill out the online form below and submit your one-time electronic payment directly to MnFIRE. You will receive an enrollment confirmation email sharing your registration is complete.

Peer Support

MnFIRE Peer Support is an unlimited resource and is always available to all active, inactive and retired Minnesota firefighters at no cost. Get confidential support 24/7 from trained and trusted peers, including both active and former firefighters, who can offer a listening ear and support you through any challenges related to the fire service or everyday life.

This is a no-cost resource and you do not need to officially enroll or complete any forms to access Peer Support after leaving the Minnesota fire service.

LEARN MORE

QUESTIONS?

For benefits extension questions, please reach the MnFIRE team at info@mnfireinitiative.com or call 763-221-9329.

FAQs

How do I enroll?

If you want to enroll in the Critical Illness Program, print and fill out the portability application form and send directly to Securian, following the instructions provided. Once your application is received, Securian will reach out to your former department to confirm eligibility. Securian will bill you directly and your policy will automatically renew annually as long as premiums are paid.

If you want to enroll in the MnFIRE Assistance Program, fill out the online form above and submit your one-time electronic payment directly to MnFIRE.

What information do I need to enroll?

You will need the following information to enroll in the Critical Illness Program:

Name
Mailing address
Date of birth
Sex
Email
Phone number
Date you left the fire service (listed as “date of loss of eligibility” on the election form)
Name of your most recent fire department and fire chief
Fire chief’s contact information (email and phone number)

You will need the following information to enroll in the MnFIRE Assistance Program:

Name
Mailing address
Date of birth
Email
Phone number
Date you left the fire service
Name of your most recent fire department and fire chief
Fire chief’s contact information (email and phone number)
Names and dates of birth of any family members in your household who may utilize the benefit
Electronic payment information

When can I enroll?

Beginning August 1, 2026, former and retired firefighters can elect to extend their coverage with MnFIRE within 45 days after leaving the fire service. After this 45-day window, you will not be able to enroll.

Once I enroll, how do I access my benefits?

Firefighters who are leaving or retiring from the fire service can access their MnFIRE benefits the same way as when they were an active firefighter. Just call 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.

How does billing work?

If you enroll in the Critical Illness Program, you will be billed directly by Securian. You will have the option to be billed quarterly, semi-annually or annually. Your policy will automatically renew annually as long as premiums are paid (coverage terminates at age 70). If you do not pay your premiums, your policy will be terminated.

If you enroll in the MnFIRE Assistance Program, you will submit your one-time electronic payment directly to MnFIRE on this page.

What happens if I enroll in MnFIRE Benefits Extension Program and then return to the fire service?

Your extended benefits policy will be forfeited with no refund upon reactivation in the Minnesota fire service. By returning to the fire service, you are automatically reenrolled for benefits through the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program at no cost to you or your department.

If you then leave or retire from the fire service again, you will be able to extend your benefits again using the same process.

I have another question. Who do I contact?

For benefits extension questions, please reach the MnFIRE team at info@mnfireinitiative.com or call 763-221-9329.