One piece of news that may have been overlooked amidst last week’s election activity is the continuation of the WA Cares Program, which mandates that workers in Washington state participate in and pay a tax to support long-term care. This initiative was on the ballot this year; had it passed, it would have amended the program to allow people to opt out at any time. The program applies a 0.58% tax on Washington workers’ paychecks. Beginning in July 2026, those who qualify can start accessing the program’s benefit — a lifetime amount of $36,500, which is set to increase over time to account for inflation. The benefit can be used for expenses like caregiving, equipment, medication, and meals.
WA Cares has been voted to continue, but discussions are ongoing about its future scope and function. Supporters believe the program is essential in addressing the costly challenge of caring for an aging population, while critics argue that the benefit is too small to make a meaningful impact, with many taxpayers potentially never using it.
Regardless of your stance on WA Cares and its implementation, many states, including Minnesota, are considering their own versions of a state LTC benefit. The vote to continue WA Cares demonstrates broad, ongoing interest in LTC options.
This is where you come in as an agent. You have the opportunity to discuss long-term/extended care options with people in your community and educate clients on the benefits of long-term care planning and insurance, as well as the various options available.
Remember, LTC insurance is designed to fund the plan and can be tailored to each client’s unique goals. The actual care plan itself is something you and your client will develop together. Insurance is all about relationships, and LTC planning is about preserving those relationships.
For advice, policy review, quotes, and more, reach out to Sales@leclairgroup.com or Kai.lawson@leclairgroup.com. Watch the Mutual of Omaha/Newman LTC webinar featuring CLTC’s Bill Comfort here: View Recording.
