Your retirement income and healthcare coverage will come from various sources and programs, including the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS), Social Security, Medicare, the Seattle Fire Fighters HealthCare Trust (SFFHCT), and the City of Seattle.

Start your retirement journey by gathering the latest retirement guides from these sources:

• The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS): While you will be dealing with several agencies as you plan for retirement and eventually retire, one of the most important is the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS). Once you’ve decided on your retirement date, familiarize yourself with the DRS website, sign up for access (if you haven’t already), and explore their helpful educational resources.
• The LEOFF Plan 2 Retirement Know-How-Guide: The LEOFF Plan 2 Retirement Board has created a detailed guide to help you navigate the considerations and preparations for your retirement. Whether you’ve been on the job for 20 days or 20 years, the LEOFF Plan 2 Retirement Know-How Guide is a vital resource.
• The City of Seattle: The City of Seattle provides a helpful Nearing Retirement checklist for city employees approaching retirement.
• The Seattle Fire Fighters HealthCare Trust (SFFHCT): When you formally announce your retirement, The Seattle Fire Fighters HealthCare Trust sends you a retirement packet that includes information on signing up for COBRA. Contact the HealthCare Trust before you retire if you want to learn more about the retirement programs the trust offers.

Also, visit the Social Security and Medicare websites to familiarize yourself with these essential federal retirement and healthcare programs if you haven’t already.