Cooper/Sams Information for EMS Providers

Thank You, Minnesota EMS Volunteers! Minnesota is proud to be one of the few states with a statewide incentive program designed to recognize and support the incredible work of our volunteer EMS personnel. This program not only rewards long-time volunteers but also offers a clear path for new volunteers to earn recognition and financial benefits as they begin their journey in EMS. The Cooper/Sams Volunteer Ambulance Award Program offers monetary awards to volunteers who meet specific service and eligibility criteria. This program highlights Minnesota’s commitment to building a strong network of emergency responders and ensuring their dedication is consistently recognized across the state.

Unlike many other states where incentive programs are handled locally, Minnesota’s centralized approach ensures fairness and consistency by providing equal recognition and monetary awards to all qualifying volunteers, regardless of where they serve in the state. This not only encourages long-term volunteerism but also showcases our state's leadership in valuing the critical role EMS volunteers play in keeping our communities healthy and safe.

To all the EMS volunteers eligible for this award—thank you for your dedication, service, and commitment to your communities. Your work does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for all you do.

Eligibility & Redemption

To qualify for the Cooper/Sams Volunteer Ambulance Award and redeem your earned service credits, you must:

Volunteer Service: Serve as a volunteer with a licensed ambulance service. A volunteer is defined as someone who earns no more than a specific annual amount, adjusted for inflation. (For example, in 2018, the limit was $7,854.) A volunteer is defined as someone who earns no more than a specific annual amount, adjusted for inflation. (For example, in 2018, the limit was $7,854.)
Age Requirement: Be at least 50 years old.
Service Credits: Have earned a minimum of five service credits. Each service credit is valued at $447.19.
Retirement/Resignation: Have resigned or retired from active ambulance service.
Application Submission: Submit a completed Claim Form to the Office of EMS by October 1 of the year you are applying for credit.

Each year, awards are granted to the 400 applicants with the highest number of credited service years. If you're not selected, you can reapply in future years.

Earning Service Credits

You earn one service credit for each year of volunteer service.
Each service credit is valued at $447.19.
To qualify, you must have received no more than $9,887.00 per year in compensation from your ambulance service.

How to Apply for Your Award

Create a SWIFT vendor account.
Complete the Cooper/Sams Longevity Award Application Form.

Important Deadlines

Ambulance Services: Submit the Credit Submission Form online between June 1 and August 1 each year.
Individual Applications: If you’re applying for the volunteer award payment, your application must be received by the Office of EMS by October 1 of the year you are applying for payment.

Need Help?

For questions about the Cooper/Sams Volunteer Ambulance Award Program, contact the Office of EMS:

Phone: 651-201-2800
Email: finance.oems@state.mn.us

Click here to go to the Ambulance Service’s page.

Thank you again to all our volunteer EMS personnel —your dedication saves lives and strengthens communities across Minnesota!