Applications open for WA Cares Fund long-term care benefits

OLYMPIA, Wash., May 18, 2026 - Washingtonians who have contributed to the WA Cares Fund can begin applying for benefits if they need long-term care. Getting started now will give applicants the opportunity to complete the process so they can start services as soon as benefits become available July 1.

"We're excited that this important program will help support Washingtonians who need long-term care," says DSHS Secretary Angela Ramirez. "The flexible benefit means you can choose the services that meet your needs, whether it's installing a wheelchair ramp for your home, paying a family member to be a caregiver, or getting transportation to a doctor's appointment."

Most workers have been earning benefits through automatic contributions since July 2023. When they're ready to use their benefits, they'll go through an application process to confirm they meet a contribution requirement and a care needs requirement.

Application process

To get started, applicants will create a benefits account and fill out a brief online application. A loved one or representative can get access to manage an applicant's account as an authorized user.

Applicants or caregivers can also call 844-CARE4WA to have a WA Cares team member guide them through the online application or apply over the phone. For in-person support and connections to other local resources, applicants can contact their local Area Agency on Aging (may require an appointment). They can find their local AAA online or call 855-567-0252.

WA Cares starts by checking whether the applicant meets the contribution requirement. There are multiple pathways to meet this requirement. Even workers or recent retirees who have only contributed for part of a year since July 2023 may have earned benefits they can use if they need care.

Next, WA Cares will determine whether the applicant meets the care needs requirement. A team member will meet with the applicant to talk about help they need with daily activities like bathing, eating, managing medications and moving around the house. WA Cares will let the applicant know whether they're approved to use benefits as well as the benefit amount they have available.

Using benefits

Once benefits become available July 1, beneficiaries can start receiving covered services and supports from a WA Cares provider. They can get services to help them live independently at home, like in-home care, home modifications, home-delivered meals and adaptive equipment like a walker or bath chair. They can also use their benefits to pay a loved one (including their spouse) to care for them. WA Cares also covers care in a facility and many other services and supports.

Beneficiaries can find registered providers using an online directory and call WA Cares if they need help. If their application is approved before benefits become available in July, they can begin looking for a provider now.