WA Cares

Washington state’s long-term care benefit

Most of us are completely unprepared for the moment we need long-term care when it arrives. That’s why, in 2019, caregivers fought to pass WA Cares, the nation’s first long-term care social insurance program. WA Cares benefits begin on July 1, 2026, after a pilot program from January to April 30 for eligible people in Lewis, Mason, Spokane, and Thurston counties. We’re one step closer to our goal of every person having access to affordable, high-quality long-term care!

With WA Cares, eligible people in Washington State will receive up to $36,500 towards long-term care services, including home care, assisted living, and Nursing Home care. WA Cares also covers home modifications like grab bars, transportation to medical appointments, home-delivered meals, assistive devices, care supplies, and more.

Learn more about WA Cares benefits at WACaresFund.wa.gov.

With WA Cares, we pay a small payroll deduction of $0.58 per $100 earned. After contributing for a few years, eligible people can access up to $36,500 (grows over time) to pay for long-term care, including in-home care from family or professional caregivers or Nursing Home care.

Read more about why caregivers and others support WA Cares at WeCareforWACares.org.

Learn about the impact WA Cares will have in your community here.