The Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Program is on track for implementation on Jan. 1, 2022, and with the deadline quickly approaching, it is imperative that individuals wanting to opt-out of the program start exploring their long-term care coverage options.

For a list of long-term care insurance companies approved to sell in Washington state, click here.

What is the LTSS Program?

The LTSS Program, also known as the WA Cares Fund, was created to provide a maximum lifetime benefit of up to $36,500 for approved long-term care services and supports to those who are eligible and who have been assessed as needing assistance with at least three activities of daily living. The program will be funded by a .58 percent premium assessment on employee wages.

To meet eligibility criteria, the beneficiary must be at least 18 years old and a current resident of Washington. Additionally, to be eligible for the benefit you must have worked and contributed to the fund for:

• At least ten years at any point in your life without a break of five or more years within those ten years, or
• Three of the last six years at the time you apply for the benefit, and
• At least 500 hours per year during those years.

Eligible beneficiaries may apply to receive benefits as of Jan. 1, 2025. Some examples of approved services and support include care in nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, home healthcare, home-delivered meals, training and support for paid and unpaid family members who provide care, and transportation.

Learn More

To learn more about Washington state’s LTSS Trust Program, click here.

Please make sure to also visit www.wacaresfund.wa.gov or register for one of the scheduled live webinars for more program information.

Questions?

If you have specific LTSS program questions, you can contact WA Care program managers here.