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State Policy·WA·June 30, 2026
Washington State Launches WA Cares Long-Term Care Insurance Program July 1
Washington's WA Cares Fund, the nation's first publicly administered long-term care insurance program, begins providing coverage on July 1, 2026. The program offers eligible workers up to $36,500 in lifetime benefits for long-term services and supports, funded through a 0.58% payroll tax. Dozens of applications have already been submitted. The launch follows years of legislative debate and program delays since the payroll tax collection began in 2023.
Why it matters for managed care
Washington MCOs must understand how WA Cares benefits interact with Medicaid LTSS eligibility and coverage, particularly regarding spend-down requirements and coordination of benefits for dual-eligible populations.
LTSS · Long-Term Care
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