Volunteer Firefighters'
Relief Associations

(VFRAs) are non-profit organizations established to afford financial protection to volunteer firefighters who suffer misfortune as a result of their efforts. VFRAs receive state aid from a 2-percent state tax on fire insurance purchased by Pennsylvania residents from insurance companies incorporated outside of the commonwealth. These funds are used to pay for insurance to protect volunteer firefighters, purchase fire equipment and to cover volunteer training expenses. VFRAs are distinct separate legal entities from fire companies.

VFRA funds are audited to make sure they are spent according to state law. The bureau also conducts workshops to help local firefighters comply with VFRA regulations.

In 2006, the Department of the Auditor General distributed more than $66.3 million to 1,973 volunteer firefighters’ relief associations in the state.