Washington is the first state in the nation to develop a public plan that makes long-term care insurance affordable. WA Cares Fund gives members access to a lifetime benefit they can use on a wide range of long-term services and supports when they need it.

As sovereign nations, tribes may choose whether or not to opt in. When a tribe opts in, all employees of their tribal businesses are covered. All employees will contribute 0.58 percent of their wages and in return, when they meet the contribution requirements, they are insured against the need for long-term services and supports — up to a lifetime benefit of $36,500 (adjusted annually for inflation).

WHY SHOULD A TRIBE OPT IN?

• It’s affordable. The WA Cares Fund is an affordable long-term care insurance program for all working Washingtonians. The current rate for WA Cares premiums is only 0.58 percent of employee earnings — or about $300 per year for the typical earner. Workers only contribute to the fund while they’re working and not after retirement.
• It offers choice. WA Cares empowers us to control how and where we receive long-term care, including in-home care, facility care, equipment, training, consultation, meal delivery and family-provided care. Learn more about WA Cares benefits.
• It provides peace of mind. Employees can worry less about whether they will be able to afford long-term care or be dependent on family or Medicaid for their needs.
• It benefits the community. Tribes are some of the largest employers in their regions, creating vast opportunities for community impact.

LEARN MORE

Need more info?

• Visit our Learn More page to read our frequently asked questions.
• ESD will be undergoing rule making. Subscribe to be notified.