About WA Cares Fund
The Washington Cares Fund is Washington State’s public long-term care insurance program designed to help working people pay for long-term care services when they need them. By contributing a small portion of your wages during your working years, you earn access to a lifetime benefit (currently up to $36,500, adjusted for inflation) that can be used for long-term services and supports — such as in-home care, home modifications, assistive equipment, transportation, and even paying a family caregiver — without draining your savings.
Most workers in Washington began contributing automatically through payroll deductions (0.58% of wages) starting in July 2023, and benefits become available statewide beginning July 1, 2026 for those who meet eligibility requirements.