Making WA Cares benefits portable is a win for border communities

At Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington, we help families navigate the challenges of accessing long-term care. The WA Cares Fund, our state’s new long-term care insurance program, is crucial as our population ages. This year, the legislature enhanced WA Cares by making benefits portable, allowing workers who leave Washington to continue using their benefits. This change is vital for those in Spokane and other border areas, offering peace of mind to those who work in Washington but may live elsewhere.

WA Cares is designed to help the 70% of us who will need longterm care. It supports staying at home longer by covering costs for caregivers, home modifications, transportation, and assistive technology. It can also be used for assisted living or nursing home care. Without this program, long-term care expenses often fall on family members, leading to significant financial strain.

WA Cares offers a flexible, essential solution for Washington workers, providing stability and support for families in our community and beyond.