The WA Cares Fund is a new program that gives working Washingtonians access to long-term care coverage when they need it. Workers contribute 0.58% of each paycheck during their working years to be able to access a $36,500 lifetime benefit (adjusted annually for inflation) that can help pay for long-term care services when needed. Workers begin contributing to WA Cares on July 1, 2023 and benefits become available July 1, 2026. In order to use your benefit, you must meet a contribution requirement as well as a care need requirement. To learn more, please visit wacaresfund.wa.gov.