Washington State Council of Fire Fighters Employee Benefit Trust

The Washington State Council of Fire Fighters Employee Benefit Trust, registered under EIN 912009771, is a nonprofit organization located in Mukilteo, Washington. It operates as a 501(c)(9) voluntary employees' beneficiary association (VEBA), providing health and welfare benefits to its members.

Mission and Purpose

The Trust is committed to delivering top-tier health and welfare benefits to its participating members, as outlined in collective bargaining agreements. Its primary goal is to continually enhance plan offerings in response to the evolving healthcare industry, ensuring members have access to comprehensive and high-quality health benefits.

Key Programs

One of the Trust's significant offerings is the IAFF Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP), which provides tax-advantaged reimbursements for medical expenses incurred during retirement. MERP is designed to support firefighters and their families by offering a triple tax advantage:

• Contributions are pre-tax, reducing taxable income.
• Investments receive tax-free earnings.
• Benefits are tax-free for eligible retirees.

The plan is governed by firefighter fiduciary trustees, with advice from professional service providers, and has over 15,000 active and retired participant firefighters. It disburses millions annually in benefits, making it a critical retirement medical funding solution.

Financial Overview

In 2022, the Trust reported significant financial activity:

• Revenue: $23,878,667.
• Investment Income: $7,582,910.
• Total Assets: $183,839,294.
• Net Assets: $183,740,030.

The Trust's financial structure aligns with its mission to provide sustainable benefits to its members.

Leadership

Greg Markley serves as the Chairman of the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters Employee Benefit Trust.

Impact

The Trust significantly supports the financial security and well-being of its members by providing essential health and welfare benefits. Its proactive approach in adapting to the healthcare landscape helps members manage healthcare complexities and costs, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Partnerships and Expansion

In recent years, the Trust has collaborated with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) to expand its programs and make them available to IAFF Locals across the United States. This strategic partnership enhances the availability of comprehensive health benefits for firefighters nationwide.