Program News & Webinars

Most Washingtonians will eventually need long-term care. These services and supports can be expensive, but most long-term care is not covered by Medicare or health insurance and Medicaid typically only covers it after you’ve spent your life savings down to $2,000.

WA Cares Fund provides working Washingtonians a way to earn access to long-term care benefits that will be available when they need them. It could cover most of the need for some people, while for others it will provide breathing room during one of life’s most challenging stages, giving the family time to develop a plan. 

We will cover:
•    How the program works
•    What long-term care includes
•    How caregiving responsibilities impact families
•    Who contributes to the fund
•    How exemptions work
•    How to qualify for benefits

Once you meet the contribution and care needs requirements, you’ll be able to start using your benefits. You can create your online account starting in April 2026, apply for benefits starting in mid-May and get benefits in July.  

You (or someone helping you) will create an online account to apply. After we get your application, we’ll check how many years you’ve contributed to WA Cares. Then we’ll send you a contribution determination letter, which will tell you whether you’ve met the contribution requirement and the benefit amount you’ve earned.  

We will cover:
•    How the program works
•    Account creation
•    Requesting your contribution determination 
•    Completing your intake call
•    Reviewing your benefit determination