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With nearly a decade spent pursuing a program to help families deal with the cost of long-term care services, we have produced several articles detailing our work over time.
Read More About WA Cares
Voters will decide Nov. 5 whether employees and self-employed workers can opt out of Washington’s long-term care insurance program.
Washington state is a leader in providing long-term care
Washington voters face a decision on the November about the WA Cares long term care program.
A 'yes' vote causes direct harm to patients, Nurses Association says
I-2124 would make the long-term care program unsustainable, denying many needed funds later in life.
Most of us want to be able to stay in our own homes and communities as we age or face challenges caring for ourselves due to a serious long-term illness, injury or disability. We also know that 70% of those 65 and older, will require some assistance to do that.
For every $100 of a worker’s earnings, 58 cents will go into the WA Cares Fund. Starting in July 2026, people who need in-home services, such as help with cooking or bathing, can apply for a WA Cares benefit to help cover the costs.
By Cathy MacCaul, AARP Washington Advocacy Director
Changes to the new WA Cares Fund also include allowing employees who live out of state and certain other groups to apply for exemptions. And the program, which was initially set to begin this year, will launch in mid-2023.
The 2022 legislative session led to a significant win for Washingtonians nearing retirement. More than a million near retirees are now eligible for benefits under the WA Cares Program.
About AARP Washington
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