Who is eligible?

Recognized, non-profit volunteer fire departments operated by its members are eligible. Any part-paid/part-volunteer fire department is also eligible, provided the number of paid members is 20 or less. Departments may enter into agreements with cities or counties in order to qualify for coverage and/or special premiums.

All eligible departments must participate in a firefighter certification program administered under Section 419.071 of the Texas Government Code (Texas Commission on Fire Protection), or by the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshal’s Association of Texas (SFFMA), or by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG).

What is eligible?

Any combination of compensation insurance for firefighters (workers' compensation, death, and/or disability insurance) is eligible. The insurance coverage must include a workers' compensation or similar benefit, and a death benefit. Departments may enter into agreements with cities or counties in order to qualify for coverage and/or special premiums.

Application Procedure

To apply, please fill out and submit the following:

• Rural VFD Insurance Program Application for Assistance
• Roster for Active fire department members
• W-9
• Copy of the paid insurance policy
  • Workers' compensation
  • Death insurance
  • Disability insurance

The program will reimburse 100% of the actual cost of eligible insurance coverage, up to a maximum of $175.00 per fire department member covered in the calendar year 2019.

Historical Funding Summaries