Special Programs

LOSAP

LOSAP (Length of Service Awards Program) is a voluntary program funded by the Frederick County Commissioners and administered by the Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (FCVFRA).   Volunteer fire and rescue personnel in Frederick County who enroll in LOSAP are eligible to receive several benefits. For example, after five years of qualified service in LOSAP, volunteers are covered by a life insurance policy.   After completing 25 years of qualified service volunteers are eligible to receive a cash award after reaching age 62.

A person enrolled in LOSAP must earn a minimum of 50 points per year to qualify. Points are earned in five categories; Department responses, Training, Special Projects, Meetings and being an officer or chairperson. If a volunteer enrolled in LOSAP is unable to qualify for any given year due to a medical disability, the volunteer should obtain the proper form, have it completed by their physician, and promptly submit it to the FCVFRA LOSAP Committee. Medical waivers need to be submitted annually.

If you enroll in LOSAP it is in your best interest to keep your enrollment information current. Promptly file a Change of Information form if you move, you change your beneficiary information, or change your department affiliation. Maintain close tabs on your LOSAP points earned throughout the year. Please don't wait until December to discover that you are a few points short of qualifying. Check your LOSAP information annually. A roster is furnished to each department annually that is to be posted.

If you have any questions, contact your department LOSAP Chairperson or FCVFRA Office at 301-600-2356.

Tuition Reimbursement

Tuition reimbursement is an additional benefit of the LOSAP program. The reimbursement applies to any courses taken at Frederick Community College.  This reimbursement covers the cost of tuition, books, and fees at 75% for volunteer who completes fire and rescue course related classes and earns a grade of "C" or better.  Classes that are not fire and rescue related, but are required as part of a degree, will be reimbursed at 50% when earning a grade of "C" or better.  To qualify, the member must be an active member of a Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association Corporation and must have met the requirements for active LOSAP status in the previous calendar year. The member must also commit to service as an active member and meet requirements for active LOSAP status for a period of at least two years after receiving the reimbursement benefits. Pre-approval must be granted prior to registration. Limited funds are available and will be on a first come, first serve basis. 

Maryland Income Tax Incentive
For Volunteer Fire, Rescue and EMS Personnel
(Senate Bill 144)

A maximum of seven thousand dollars ($7,000) can be deducted from the Federal adjusted gross income on the Maryland State Income Tax return.  More than one member in a household may be eligible, however, each must have an income to qualify.  

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be an active member of a bona fide fire, rescue, or emergency medical service organization in the state of Maryland;
• Serve the organization in a volunteer capacity without compensation, except for nominal expenses or meals;
• Qualify for active status during the tax year under a LOSAP system established by a county of municipal corporation;
• Will have been an active member of a bona fide Maryland Fire, rescue or EMS organization for at least 36 months during the last 10 calendar years by December 31 of the taxable year.

For more information, contact your FCVFRA LOSAP Committee Chairperson or call 301-600-2356.