Retirement Security
The IAFF’s mission is to ensure that fire fighters across North America have a dignified and secure retirement. Navigating pension systems and choosing benefits can be daunting. Learn about pension resources programs, benefits assistance, and legislation we’re working on to protect your retirement.
Pension Resources
Navigating pension systems and choosing benefits can be daunting. Access pension program resources, including the IAFF pension handbook and glossary.
HELPS
The IAFF won an unprecedented congressional victory with the passage of the Healthcare Enhancement for Local Public Safety Officers (HELPS) act. Under it, retirees can receive a tax-free distribution of up to $3,000 from retirement plans to help pay for health insurance or long-term care insurance premiums.
WEP/GPO
The WEP/GPO provision denies Social Security
benefits for retired first responders who paid their fair share simply because they chose a career in public service. Despite paying into Social Security through a second job, thousands of fire fighters and emergency medical workers are denied their full Social Security benefits because they were not eligible for Social Security through their primary job.