Benefit Coverage
Beginning July 2026, each person who is eligible to receive the full WA Cares Fund benefit can access long-term care services and supports costing up to $36,500 (adjusted annually up to inflation).
You choose the care you need
WA Cares can help you pay for care in your home or in a residential care setting. It's your choice. Here are some of the common situations the benefit will cover:
the services washingtonians need
After becoming paralyzed, Sawyer needs help with tasks like showering.
Sally’s partner Patty has an in-home caregiver who helps Patty do daily activities and gives Sally a break.
Explore covered services
how far does the benefit go?
With your WA Cares benefit, you’ll have up to $36,500 (adjusted annually up to inflation) to spend on covered services. (Learn more about benefit amounts, based on years of contributions.) But how much does that really cover? For about a third of people, this amount could cover all the care they need in a lifetime. For everyone else, it will provide immediate relief from long-term care costs without the need to spend down their savings, as well as time to plan for any future needs. For people with private long-term care insurance, WA Cares can help cover the benefit waiting period.
Please note: These scenarios are just examples (created in 2022) and do not guarantee the cost of any services, which may vary based on your area and other factors.
Enable a family member to become your paid caregiver
| Paying a family caregiver (10 hours/week for 2 years) | $31,300 |
| Care supplies (2 years of incontinence supplies)) | $2,200 |
Make your home accessible to stay independent longer
| Home safety renovation | $15,000 |
| Electric wheelchair or scooter | $2,600 |
| Weekly meal delivery (7 meals/week for 3 years) | $9,200 |
Get temporary support and services after an accident
| Part-time caregiver (20 hours/week for 1 year) | $31,300 |
| Transportation to appointments (for 1 year) | $3,200 |
| Crutches | $50 |