WA Cares benefits of up to $36,500 will become available in January 2026 to a small group of people who reside within these counties.
An interest list is open now.
Only a limited number of spots will be available on a first come, first served basis so make sure to express interest early. You’ll be able to work directly with WA Cares contracted businesses to get supports if your application is approved.
There are four requirements to qualify for the WA Cares pilot program:
1. You live in Lewis, Mason, Spokane or Thurston County.
AND
2. You meet the contribution requirement.
• You’ve contributed a small part of your paycheck to WA Cares for three or more years.
AND
3. You meet the care requirement.
• Need help with three or more activities of daily living for 90 days or longer.
4. You are not currently receiving Medicaid services, such as Apple Health medical or long-term care services and supports.*
If you would like to join the pilot interest list, need help with the application process or want to explore other long-term care options, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging is here to help as your local resource.
Call 360-664-2168, option 2 to begin.
Select residents of Spokane County will also gain early access to WA Cares. For extra support applying for the WA Cares pilot there, reach out to Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington by calling 509-960-7281.
The full, public debut of WA Cares is set for July 2026. By joining the pilot, you’ll help to improve the WA Cares experience for all Washingtonians.
*Coordination of benefits is not available during the pilot but will be available for the statewide launch beginning in May 2026. [Medicaid services include: Apple Health Medical (managed care or fee-for-service), LTSS programs like Community First Choice (CFC), COPES, Roads to Community Living (RCL), New Freedom or the Residential Support Waiver, MAC/TSOA, or programs available through Developmental Disability Community Services such as Basic Plus, Core, IFS, and Community Protection.] You’ll be able to apply for and receive benefits when they become available statewide in July 2026.
