WA Cares Fund

Seven out of ten of us will need some form of long-term care support at some point in our lives. Many of us also won’t have a way to pay for it or will have to drain our savings or retirement funds when we need that support.

The WA Cares Fund is a program that can help us when we need it. Washington state is the first state in the country putting together a worker earned long-term care program. In July 2023, working Washingtonians started contributing to this program, and July 2026 is the first time people can apply once they meet the qualifications.

This is something that can be used to help with meal delivery, transportation to medical appointments, home modifications like building ramps and grab bars, paying caregivers, and more. Right now, the benefit amount people can receive for these supports is $36,500 and this amount will continue to increase with inflation each year. It is important for working Washingtonians to know this is something that we are all contributing too already, and what support we can receive from it in case of a sudden injury or need for care later in life.

If you have further questions, please contact NWRC at 360-738-2500