Available Benefits for the Survivors of Fallen Illinois Firefighters Following Line of Duty Deaths
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Available Benefits for the
Survivors of Fallen Illinois Firefighters
Following Line of Duty Deaths
Illinois Fire Chiefs Association
P. O. Box 7
Skokie, Illinois 60076-0007
By
Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper Gilbert & DiNolfo, Ltd.
1804 North Naper Boulevard, Suite 350
Naperville, Illinois 60563
630.682.0085
630.682.0788 (f)
www.ottosenbritz.com
Line of Duty Death Benefits Available to the Surviving Spouse
and Children of a Fallen Firefighter 1
Part I: Available Federal Benefits
Public Safety Officers’ Benefit 5
Public Safety Officers’ Educational Assistance 6
Hometown Heroes Act of 2003 7
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) Insurance 8
Social Security Benefits 9
Veterans’ Administration Benefits 10
Victims of Crime Act Benefits 11
Fallen Hero Survivor Benefit Fairness Act of 2001 12
Part II: Available Illinois State Benefits
Illinois Line of Duty Compensation Act 14
Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (Health Insurance Benefits) 15
Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act 16
Downstate Firefighters’ Pension Fund 17
Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund 18
Illinois Higher Education Student Assistance Act 19
Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (Educational Benefits ) 20
Part III: Available Local Benefits
Local Benefits Available 22
Part IV: Benefits Available Through Non-Profit or Private Organizations
Benefits Available Through Non-Profit or Private Organizations 24
Part V: Sample Forms
Benefits Checklist 26
Questions to Ask About Benefits 27
Contact Sheet 28
Necessary Documentation 29
1
Each potential benefit listed has separate eligibility requirements. Moreover, the
material contained herein is intended to provide a summary of benefits that may be
available to a firefighter’s loved ones following a line-of-duty death. This summary is
not intended to give individual legal advice, but rather general information concerning
benefits that might be available.
2In memory of Deputy Chief Mark Johnson
I am honored to have the opportunity to write the preface for this document in memory of
Hinsdale Deputy Chief Mark Johnson: a good friend, colleague, husband, and father who
passed away suddenly on September 20, 2010 in the line of duty. When one enters the
fire service or is promoted to a supervisory position, whether it is at the company officer
level or a chief officer level, there is a commitment to make sure everyone goes home
safe. However, we also know that the tragedy of a line of duty death (LODD) is a reality
in our profession.
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance and a resource in the event a LODD
occurs in your department. I am not sure any document can fully prepare one for a
LODD, but in the days and weeks that follow a LODD, it is reassuring to have the
information and contacts that this document will provide. Additionally, it is important to
review this document proactively and make sure that you have information on file for the
members of your department, and that this information is updated on a regular basis, so
that in the event of a LODD, the firefighter’s wishes are followed and respected.
Experiencing a LODD is a sad, emotional and difficult time for a department and for the
family of the firefighter. There are situations and sometimes complex issues that arise
surrounding benefits and the application of certain laws that can cause strains in
relationships. Understand that although it is tragic and difficult for fire service members
to lose a brother or sister firefighter, it is more devastating to the families of these
firefighters. Do all you can to be supportive to the families and act as an advocate during
difficult times. As time goes by, remember to continue to provide support to the family
of the fallen firefighter and honor their memory.
I would like to thank the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association, the Hinsdale Fire Pension
Board, Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper Gilbert & DiNolfo, Ltd., and especially Cheryl
Johnson for their efforts in providing the information found in this document. My hope is
that you will never have to use this document, but that if needed it will provide the
information necessary to make sure that the firefighter’s family’s needs are taken care of.
If I can ever be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Deputy Chief Mark Johnson
Michael J. Kelly
Assistant Chief
Bartlett Fire Protection District
(W) 630-233-5455
(C) 630-774-7593
mkelly@bartlettfire.com
3PART I
Available Federal Benefits
Public Safety Officers’ Benefit
Public Safety Officers’ Educational Assistance
Hometown Heroes Act of 2003
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) Insurance
Social Security Benefits
Veterans’ Benefits
Victims of Crime Act
Fallen Hero Survivor Benefit Fairness Act of 2001 (Tax Benefits)Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Act
42 U.S.C. § 3796 et seq.
What does the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Act (PSOB) provide to eligible
survivors?
The PSOB offers death benefits in the form of a one-time financial payment to
eligible survivors of public safety officers who die in the line of duty.
How can one obtain more information on the PSOB?
The PSOB is administered by the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice
Assistance. Survivors are encouraged to visit the Department’s website for further
guidance.
Additionally, for more detailed and up-to-date information, visit:
www.ojp.usdoj.gov?BJA/grant/psob/psob_main.html or call 888-744-6513
Who is an “eligible survivor” under the PSOB?
The Act prescribes who is eligible to receive the benefits. So long as the fallen
firefighter was employed by a governmental body, benefits are provided as follows:
100% of the benefits to the surviving spouse if there are no children;
50% of the benefits to the surviving spouse and 50% to the surviving children
in equal shares;
100% of the benefits to the surviving children in equal shares if there is no
surviving spouse;
If there is no surviving spouse or children, then to the individual(s) designated
as beneficiary on the most recently executed life insurance policy;
If there is no surviving spouse or children and no designation of anyone else,
then to the parent or parents of the fallen firefighter in equal shares.
What is included in the term “dependent children”?
This term includes children under the age of 18, or a full-time student under the age
of 23, or dependent because of a permanent disability. This also includes
stepchildren.
What is the amount of the award?
For fiscal year 2013, the amount is $328,612.73. The amount is adjusted each
October, based on the Consumer Price Index.
How to apply for PSOB.
The fire department should contact PSOB to initiate a claim. There are two forms
that must be completed: one by the immediate survivor(s) and one by the fire
department. These forms detail the extensive documentation required to approve a
claim. Additionally, an autopsy is strongly recommended, especially if there has not
been an obvious traumatic injury.
What if the PSOB claim is denied?
PSOB has an appeals process that survivors can use to provide additional
documentation or new information that may affect the final claim ruling.
5Public Safety Officers’ Educational Assistance
What benefits are available under the Public Safety Officers’ Educational
Assistance (PSOEA) Program?
PSOEA provides financial assistance for higher education for the spouses and
children of firefighters killed in the line of duty. The program is designed to
extend the benefits of higher education to qualified and deserving people who, by
virtue of the death, may not otherwise be able to afford it.
How can one obtain more information on PSOEA?
For more detailed and recent information, including a downloadable application,
visit www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/psob/psob_education.html
Who is eligible to receive this benefit?
Educational assistance is available under this program to eligible survivors after
the PSOB death claim process has been completed and benefits have been
awarded. Persons eligible to receive benefits under this program are:
the surviving spouse; and
children and/or stepchildren under the age of 27. The individuals must be
full- or part-time students at an eligible institution.
What is the amount of the award and what can it be used for?
As of October 2011, the maximum award was $957 per month and is available for
up to 45 months of full-time education or training (or a proportional amount of
time for part-time studies). The award is adjusted each October based on the
Consumer Price Index and will depend upon the number of courses and other
eligible expenses. Such eligible expenses include:
tuition and fees,
room and board,
book and supplies,
other expenses consistent with the applicant’s educational, professional or
vocational objectives. Costs may be reimbursable for eligible costs
incurred in previous years.
How to apply for PSOEA?
In order to apply for PSOEA, a PSOB death claim must be completed and
benefits must have been paid. Have PSOB case number or date of award and
information on estimated costs available at the time of application. To apply call
the PSOEA at 888-744-6513.
6Hometown Heroes Act of 2003
What is the Hometown Heroes Act of 2003?
The Hometown Heroes Act was signed into law in 2003 as an expansion of the
benefits under the Public Safety Officers’ Benefit (PSOB) Program. Principally,
the Act makes the PSOB Program applicable to a greater number of beneficiaries,
by redefining what fatalities qualify as line of duty deaths.
What circumstances are covered by the Act?
The Act creates a presumption that a firefighter who suffered a fatal heart attack
or stroke within 24 hours after on-duty, nonroutine stressful or strenuous physical
activity or training has died as a direct and proximate result of a personal injury
sustained in the line of duty. Therefore, the death would be considered a line of
duty death.
What must I show to invoke the benefits of the Act?
To invoke the benefits of this Act, beneficiaries must submit information with the
PSOB Program application that show five necessary criteria are met:
1. The cause of death was a direct and proximate result of a heart attack or
stroke;
2. While on duty, the firefighter engaged in either fire suppression, rescue
activity, hazardous material response, emergency medical services,
disaster relief activity, other emergency response or participation in a
formal training exercise;
3. The activity or training exercise involved nonroutine stressful or strenuous
physical activity;
4. The fatal heart attack or stroke occurred within 24 hours of that activity;
and
5. There is no competent medical evidence that shows that something other
than the firefighter’s work caused the heart attack or stroke.
Do I have to submit past medical records?
Not necessarily. If the PSOB Office requires medical records they will request
them. In that case, they will ask for records going back three (3) years. But absent
a specific request from the office, there is no need to supply these records.
7Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) Insurance
What is COBRA?
COBRA is a federal law that guarantees the availability of health insurance to the
spouse and dependent children following a firefighter’s line of duty death. This
act ensures consistency in health insurance offered to the spouse and dependent
children before and after the death.
Who initiates contact about the insurance?
There is a timeline in order to receive COBRA benefits. The fire department or
fire protection district must notify the health plan administrator within thirty (30)
days of the firefighter’s death. The plan administrator then has fourteen (14) days
to contact the survivor and offer the benefits of COBRA coverage. The
beneficiaries then have sixty (60) days to decide to whether they wish to accept
the benefits under this act.
Who is eligible?
A surviving spouse and any dependent children (including stepchildren) are
eligible for these benefits, provided that the deceased firefighter and the survivors
have actually been covered under the firefighter’s health plan at the time of death.
Dependent children must be under 18 years of age, or, if child is a full-time
student, under 23 years of age. The insurance coverage last for up to 36 months
following the death.
When will coverage start?
If COBRA coverage is elected, the plan will be applied retroactively to the date
that the original benefits ended because of the death.
Who pays for COBRA coverage?
Fire departments and fire protection districts are not obligated under the law to
pay for the health insurance. In most cases, payment for the coverage under this
act is rendered by the survivors.
What benefits are available?
Coverage under this act must be the same as the coverage the firefighter had prior
to his or her death. However, survivors may elect to drop some incidental
benefits in an attempt to lower premium costs. If the fire department or fire
protection district changes its health plan, survivors will receive the benefits from
the subsequent changes.
8Social Security Benefits
www.ssa.gov
Who is eligible for Social Security and what benefits are offered to survivors?
Any person who has worked and has paid Social Security taxes has earned
benefits for his or her family. Social Security benefits offer a one-time death
benefit of $255 toward burial expense and also offers monthly survivor’s benefits.
Persons that may be eligible for benefits under this program include:
Widows and widowers age 60 and older
Disabled widows and widowers
Widows and widowers taking care of the fallen firefighter’s child who is
under the age of 16 or disabled, and receiving Social Security benefits
Unmarried children under 18 years of age, or up to 19 years of age if
attending high school full-time
o Under certain circumstances, stepchildren, grandchildren or
adopted children may be eligible for benefits
Disabled children of any age who were disabled before 22 years of age
Dependent parents 62 years of age or older
Divorced spouses 60 years of age or older, if the marriage lasted 10 years
or longer
Who administers the program and how do you get in touch with them?
The program is administered by the Social Security Administration. You can call
the Social Security toll free at 800-772-1213 or visit the above website. You may
also call or visit your local Social Security office.
What benefits are available?
Social Security benefits offer a one-time death benefit of $255 toward burial
expense and also offers monthly survivor’s benefits.
What if the fallen firefighter was already receiving Social Security benefits?
If the fallen firefighter was receiving Social Security benefits prior to his or her
death, it is important to contact Social Security immediately to report the death. If
benefits are paid by check, do not cash the check and return any checks received
after the death to Social Security. If benefits are paid through direct deposit,
notify your financial institution.
9Veterans’ Administration Benefits
www.va.gov
What does the Veterans’ Administration Benefit include?
The firefighter must have been a veteran who received a discharge other than
dishonorable. Survivors may be eligible for a lump sum payment of $300 for
burial expenses, an allowance of $300 toward a burial plot, burial in a national
cemetery, a government headstone or marker, and a burial flag. Reservists
entitled to retired pay are also eligible to receive a burial flag.
Who administers the program?
The U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs administers the benefit program.
How do you apply for veterans’ benefits?
Contact the regional Veterans’ Administration Office listed in the Federal
Government section of the phone book or call 800-827-1000. You will need:
Proof of military service (Form DD-214)
Service Serial Number
Death certificate
Marriage license, if applicable
Children’s birth certificates, if applicable
How can I get more information?
For more detailed and the most current information, visit www.va.gov or call 800-
827-1000.
10Victims of Crime Act Benefits
42 U.S.C.A. §10601
What is the Victim of Crime program?
The Victim of Crime Act authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to support
state programs to provide compensation and assistance to victims of federal and
state crimes. For firefighters, this would generally include deaths that involve
arson, homicide, or other associated crimes.
What types of costs are available?
Each state administers a crime victim compensation program that provides
financial assistance. In Illinois, up to $27,000 in financial assistance may be
available (with certain limitations) for things such as medical costs, funeral and
burial costs, lost wages, and mental health counseling. Compensation is only paid
when other financial resources, such as private insurance, do not cover the
expenses.
How can I get more information?
• Call 800-851-3420 to order printed resources from the Department of
Justice.
• Visit the Department of Justice website at www.ovc.gov for a complete
list of all services and contact information on offices throughout the
United States.
• See http://www.ag.state.il.us/victims/cvc.html for information on benefits
offered in Illinois
11Fallen Hero Survivor Benefit Fairness Act of 2001
Tax Benefits 2
What benefits does the Fallen Hero Survivor Benefit Fairness Act provide to
surviving spouses of fallen firefighters?
President Bush signed the law into effect in mid-2001 and allows all survivors
who receive an annuity on account of a firefighter’s line of duty death to exclude
these benefits from gross income on their tax returns.
What benefits are exempt under this Act?
The law amends the Internal Revenue Service Code (the federal tax regulations)
and exempts pensions or annuity payments on public safety death benefits. These
public safety death benefits include those received by the surviving spouse of
fallen firefighters.
2
The attorneys at Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper Gilbert & DiNolfo recognize that the intricate and
complicated nature of tax issues are beyond their expertise. Accordingly, the information in this section is
not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used as tax advice. Beneficiaries are encouraged to
contact a licensed tax expert for assistance with these benefits.
12PART II
Available Illinois State Benefits
Line of Duty Compensation Act
Public Safety Employee Benefits Act
Workers’ Compensation
Retirement/Pension Benefits
Education BenefitsIllinois Line of Duty Compensation Act
820 ILCS 315/1 et seq.
What is the Illinois Line of Duty Compensation Act?
The Illinois Line of Duty Compensation Act provides benefits to the survivors of
firefighters who die in the line of duty. The benefits offered are in addition to
other available benefits.
What benefits are available under the Act?
The Act offers a lump sum death benefit, as well as burial benefits.
What is the amount of the award?
As of January 2010, the amount of the lump sum death benefit was $313,878.96.
The amount is adjusted every year according to the Consumer Price Index. The
Act also provides for burial benefits up to a maximum of $10,000.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this program?
The benefits under this program extend to the survivors of a fallen firefighter,
including volunteer firefighters. However, death must occur within one year from
the date the injury was received.
How are the benefits disbursed?
The benefits available under this program are paid to the person designated by the
firefighter. However, if no beneficiary is designated, or if no beneficiary survives
the death of the firefighter, the benefits will be paid according to the firefighter’s
binding will. If there is no will, 100% of the benefits will be paid in the following
manner:
To the surviving spouse;
If there is no surviving spouse, then to the surviving descendants of the
firefighter in equal shares;
If there is neither a surviving spouse nor surviving descendants, then the
benefits will be paid to the surviving parents in equal shares or to the
surviving parent if one is dead;
If there is no surviving spouse, dependent children, or parent, then to the
brothers or sisters, or their descendants, who were dependents of the
firefighter.
If there is no one who falls in any of these categories, then no benefits will
be paid.
How can you apply for benefits or receive further information?
An application and instructions are available on the Illinois Secretary of State’s
Office. Visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/cc92.pdf
for more information.
14Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (Health Insurance Benefits)
820 ILCS 320/1 et seq.
What is the Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (PSEBA)?
The Public Safety Employee Benefits Act offers health insurance assistance to the
survivors of a firefighter. This Act requires the fire department or fire protection
district to provide health coverage when the firefighter dies in the line of duty.
What benefits are available under the Act?
The Act provides the benefit of health coverage equal to that of the coverage prior
to the death. Additionally, the Act provides for educational assistance, which is
discussed in a later section.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this program?
Benefits are available to the surviving spouse for life. Surviving children are
covered by this Act until reaching the age of 18. Additionally, the Act will offer
benefits to surviving dependents until the end of the calendar year of the child’s
25th birthday, if they are a full-time student or otherwise unable to find gainful
employment.
How are the benefits disbursed?
After the death, eligible survivors will retain the health coverage equivalent to
what was offered prior to the firefighter’s death. Though, benefits from any other
source will reduce the obligation of the fire department or fire protection district.
Are there any limitations to receive benefits under this program?
The Act provides a more precise definition of what constitutes a line of duty
death. It states that the death must result from the firefighter’s response to what is
reasonably believed to be an emergency. Consequently, deaths resulting from
training drills and exercises are not likely to result in benefits under this program
How can you apply for benefits or receive further information?
Personnel from the firefighter’s employer are the best resources for assistance
with receiving these benefits. Contact the fire department or fire protection
district for further information and guidance.
15Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act
820 ILCS 305/1 et seq.
What benefits are available under the Act?
The Workers’ Compensation Act provides both a burial benefit, as well as
benefits aimed at compensating for lost wages. These benefits should cover all
first-aid, medical and hospital expenses resulting from the fatal accident.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this program?
A surviving spouse and/or surviving dependent children are eligible under this
Act. A dependent child must be under 18 years of age, or 25 years of age if
enrolled as a full-time student. If a dependent child is disabled, he or she would
be eligible for benefits until the disability is removed.
What is the amount of benefits available?
The Act provides a burial benefit of $8,000. Additionally, the eligible survivors
receive weekly payments equal to 2/3 of the decedent’s weekly pay rate.
How are the benefits disbursed?
The benefits are disbursed in weekly payments to the surviving spouse for 25
years. If there is no surviving spouse or the surviving spouse dies before the
youngest child turns 18, benefits are paid until the youngest child reaches 18 years
of age.
Are there any limitations to receive benefits under this program?
The benefits paid on a weekly basis can be no greater than 133 1/3% of the
statewide average weekly wage and they can be no less than 50% of the statewide
average weekly wage. Additionally, the total amount of benefits paid is $500,000
or the survivor’s benefit for 25 years, whichever is greater. Furthermore, if the
spouse remarries and there are no surviving children who are entitled to benefits,
the spouse will receive a one-time lump sum payment equal to two years of
benefits. Lastly, when a surviving spouse is eligible to receive Workers’
Compensation benefits, the available pension benefits can be reduced in an
amount equal to the amount of the Workers’ Compensation benefits. This results
even if a surviving spouse does not receive Workers’ Compensation benefits.
How can you apply for benefits or receive further information?
For more detailed information, including application materials, visit
http://www.state.il.us/agency/iic/index.htm or call 866-352-3033
16Downstate Firefighters’ Pension Fund
40 ILCS 5/4-101 et seq.
What is the Downstate Pension Fund?
This pension fund is established and governed by state statutes. The statutes
permit a local Board of Trustees to, among other things, determine the amount of
benefits available to survivors.
What benefits are available under this pension fund?
When the death is a line of duty death, the minimum survivor’s pension is
established at 100% of the salary on the last day of service, regardless of the
fallen firefighter’s length of service with the fire department or fire protection
district.
Can the benefits be reduced at all?
Yes. Under most circumstances the amount of benefits available through the
pension fund will be offset by benefits paid under the Illinois Worker’s
Compensation Act. However, if the death is caused by a disease that is either
aggravated by the employment or arose out of and in the course of employment,
the pension benefits are not offset by Worker’s Compensation benefits.
How can I receive more information on the Downstate Firefighters Pension Fund?
For more detailed information and to initiate benefits under this plan, contact the
local Board of Trustees with the responsibility of administering the pension fund.
Contact information should be available with the firefighter’s employer.
17Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund
40 ILCS 5/7 et seq.
What is the Illinois Municipal Retirement (IMRF) Fund?
This retirement fund was created to provide disability, retirement and death
benefits to employees of units of local government. Note that benefits under
IMRF are only available in the rare situations where the firefighter was a member
of IMRF.
What benefits are available under this pension fund?
When a death occurs in the line of duty, IMRF provides a lump sum death benefit
payable to the beneficiaries regardless of the firefighter’s length of service. A
one-time death benefit is also available.
What is the amount of the award?
The lump sum is equivalent to one year’s earnings plus any of the firefighter’s
contributions in his or her account plus interest. However, when a surviving
spouse is receiving Social Security and/or Workers’ Compensation benefits, the
amount of the IMRF pension benefits may be offset in an amount equal to those
benefits. The one-time death benefit is equal to $3,000.
Who is eligible for benefits under this program?
In order for a surviving spouse to be eligible for funding under IMRF, the
marriage or civil union must have occurred at least one year prior to the
firefighter’s death. Additionally, the spouse must be named as a beneficiary by
the firefighter.
How can I receive more information on IMRF death benefits?
For more detailed information and to initiate benefits under this plan, visit
www.imrf.org or call 800-275-4673. The IMRF will then send all necessary
forms to receive benefits.
18Illinois Higher Education Student Assistance Act
110 ILCS 947/1 et seq.
What benefits are available under the Illinois Higher Education Student Assistance
Act?
This Act provides assistance toward college tuition and mandatory fees for
undergraduate or graduate study at an Illinois college approved by the Illinois
Student Assistance Commission.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this program?
Under the Grant Program for Dependents of Police or Fire Officers, the spouse or
child of a firefighter killed in the line of duty may be eligible for benefit.
Recipients do not necessarily need to be an Illinois resident at the time of
enrollment. Stepchildren are not eligible.
What is the amount of benefits available?
The equivalent of eight (8) semesters of assistance may be received. The number
of grants awarded through this program as well as the dollar amount of each grant
varies from year-to-year based on the funding appropriated for the act by the
General Assembly and the Governor.
How are the benefits disbursed?
Recipients attending an approved public college in Illinois receive full payment of
tuition and mandatory fees on their behalf, though students may be responsible for
payment until program funds are received by the college. Recipients should
contact the college’s Financial Aid Office or Business Office to determine the
individual school’s policy. Recipients attending an approved private college in
Illinois will receive payment of tuition and mandatory fees in an amount that is
equivalent to the most expensive comparable program of study at a public college
in the state.
How can you apply for benefits or receive further information?
Most college financial aid offices, as well as most high school guidance
counselors’ offices, have applications for this benefit available. For more
complete information and application material, you may also visit
www.collegezone.com/studentzone/407_582.htm Application deadlines do
apply.
19Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (Educational Benefits)
820 ILCS 320/15
What educational benefits are available under the Illinois Public Safety Employee
Benefits Act (PSEBA)?
If a firefighter is accidentally or unlawfully and intentionally killed in the line of
duty, certain educational expenses which children of the deceased incur while
obtaining a vocational-technical certificate or an undergraduate education at a
State institution will be waived.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this program?
The benefits prescribed by this Act are available to the children of a firefighter
killed in the line of duty. The benefits extend until the child’s 25th birthday and
are available during full- and part-time enrollment.
How can you apply for benefits or receive further information?
Eligible candidates are encouraged to contact their school’s financial aid office or
high school guidance counselor’s office for further details.
20PART III
Available Local Benefits
Life Insurance
Final Paycheck
Sick Pay
Health InsuranceLocal Benefits Available
The benefits available to surviving beneficiaries from local entities vary from
municipality to municipality. Some benefits that may be available include:
Life Insurance
Retirement
Final Paycheck
Sick Pay
Coverage of Hospital/Emergency Transport Costs
Health Insurance (see Part II: PSEBA (Health Insurance Benefits))
Funeral/Burial Allowance
Often the fire department or fire protection district will provide this information on these
benefits. If not, inquire with the firefighter’s employer. Questions to consider asking
include:
Is there a department life insurance policy?
Will the final check include unused vacation and sick leave?
How do I apply for ongoing health insurance benefits under PSEBA?
For further information on the particular local benefits available for the survivors of a
fallen firefighter, contact the fire department or fire protection district.
22PART IV
Benefits Available Through Non-Profit or Private
Organizations
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
100 Club
Scholarship Opportunities
Illinois Firefighters Memorial Foundation
Union BenefitsBenefits Available Through Non-Profit or Private
Organizations
If the fallen firefighter belonged to any organization, such as a union or a fraternal group,
there may be additional benefits available. Some communities and states, including
Illinois, have private organizations that will provide immediate assistance. However,
with the majority of these organizations, assistance must be requested. Automatic
assistance is rarely offered. Some organization which may offer assistance include:
International Association of Fire Fighters
o www.iaff.org
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
o 866-736-5868
o http://firehero.org
100 Club
Local Union
Illinois Firefighters Memorial Foundation
Illinois State Fire Marshal
o www.state.il.us/osfm/Memorial?FFMOHScholarshipApplication.pdf
Dignity Memorial Funeral and Cremation Services
o Provides dignified and honorable tributes, at no cost, for career and
volunteer firefighters who fall in the line of duty
o Various locations throughout Illinois
o 800-344-6489
o www.dignitymemorial.com
24PART V Sample Forms Benefit Checklist Questions to Ask Necessary Documentation
Potentially Available Benefits for Survivors of Fallen Firefighters
Each benefit may have separate criteria for eligibility. Please see above sections for more information on the specific benefits and the necessary
contact information.
Eligible for this Have necessary Date Claim
Notes
benefit? information? Initiated
Federal Benefits
Public Safety Officers’ Benefit
Public Safety Officers’
Educational Assistance
COBRA Insurance
Social Security Benefits
Veterans’ Benefits
Victims of Crime Act Benefits
State Benefits
Line of Duty Compensation
Benefits
Workers’ Compensation
Retirement/Pension Benefits
Education Benefits (PSEBA)
Local Benefits
Life Insurance
Final Paycheck
Sick Pay
Health Insurance (PSEBA)
Other Benefits
National Fallen Firefighters
Foundation
100 Club
IL Firefighters Mem. Fund
Union Benefits
International Assoc. of Fire
Fighters
Illinois State Fire Marshal
26Questions to Ask About Benefits
If you are the surviving spouse, the following are sample questions to ask about each benefit:
Final Payment
Once the paperwork is complete and I receive confirmation of benefit eligibility,
how soon can I expect to receive or begin receiving this benefit?
Children:
Is this benefit based on dependent children?
How will my benefit change when my children turn 18 years of age?
What if they are in college?
What if they marry?
What are the age limitations for children to receive this benefit?
Are stepchildren and/or adopted children eligible to receive benefits?
Remarriage:
What happens if I remarry before I receive all the payments?
If I remarry, will my children continue to receive their benefits?
Taxes and Financial Considerations:
Is this benefit exempt from Federal and/or state income tax?
o If so, how can I get this in writing?
Will this benefit be offset or reduce the amount I can receive from other benefit
programs?
All surviving beneficiaries are encouraged to keep records of the benefits and the award process.
A sample form is included on the next page.
27Contact Sheet
Name of Benefit:_______________________________________________________________
Type of Contact: In-person Phone Email U.S. Mail Website
Date:________________________ Time: ________________________
Spoke to:_______________________________ Employee ID Number:_________________
Phone Number:__________________________ Extension:_____________________
Other Relevant Contact Information:________________________________________________
Confirmation Number, if applicable:________________________________________________
Summary of Contact:____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Information/Documents Needed:___________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Next Expected Contact:__________________________________________________________
Follow-up Needed/Notes for Next Time:_____________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
28Necessary Documentation
The following is a list of documents to have available while preparing various benefit claims,
including but not limited to federal, state, local and/or personal benefits:
Death certificate
Social Security card
o Fallen firefighter’s
o Surviving spouse’s
o Dependent children’s
Marriage Certificate
Birth Certificate
o Fallen firefighter’s
o Surviving spouse’s
o Dependent children’s
Insurance policies
Deeds or titles to property
Stock certificates
Bank books
Veteran papers or Veterans’ Administration Claim Number
Recent income tax forms and W-2s
Automobile title and registration papers
Loan information
Many of the benefits will require submission of a copy of one or more of the above documents.
It is a good idea to have several copies of each on hand.
29You can also read
