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Policy & Law
Learn how the program’s policies and legal framework support Supplemental Private LTC Insurance options.
History of Supplemental Insurance in WA
July
2019
Long Term Services & Supports Trust Act Passed
Washington becomes the first state to offer a publicly-funded long-term care benefit to nearly all of its working adults.
November
2021
Private LTC Insurance "Opt-Out" Ends
Many categories for exemption from participation in WA Cares remain, but the deadline for those owning private LTC insurance closed in 2021.
May
2025
Supplemental LTC Insurance Created
Legislature establishes a new chapter under Title 48 RCW, necessitating new laws and rules be written to govern the new product.
March
2026
WA Ins Dept Approves Rules
After holding numerous stakeholder hearings, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner approved new rules and amendments for SLTC insurance.
May
2026
Supplemental LTC Insurance May be Sold in WA
Insurers may submit rates and forms for approval with the Insurance Dept, but no policies can be issued prior to May 1st.
July
2026
WA Cares Benefits May Be Accessed
A pilot program began January, 2026 in Lewis, Mason, Spokane and Thurston counties. Benefits become available statewide July, 2026.
The Regulatory Framework
Supplemental LTC insurance is regulated differently than WA Cares, but works side-by-side:
WA Cares Fund
Public trust account (RCW 50B.04)
Administered by DSHS, HCA, ESD
Automatic enrollment for most
No Medicaid spenddown protection
Benefits paid directly to provider
First payor
Supplemental LTC Insurance
Private insurance (RCW 48.212)
Regulated by OIC
Voluntary application
Dollar-for-dollar asset protection
Benefits paid to insured or provider
Second payor
Washington's supplemental LTC insurance market is dynamic-- it is new, and products have yet to be approved. Until then, access the adopted Supplemental LTC Insurance regulations at the link below, or follow us for updates.
Key Legislative Mielstones
SSB 1087
Effective 7/28/19
The founding legislation which created the LTSS Trust Program, renamed the WA Cares Fund. Its goal is a "seamless transition" between public and private funding sources, and tasks the Health Care Authority with the responsiblity for coordinating between WA Cares and private insurance.
