Who will be eligible for benefits?
To earn benefits, an individual must have worked and contributed to the fund for at least 10 years, without a break of five or more years, or three years in the past six years at the time they apply for benefits with at least 500 hours worked annually during those years.
People who meet those criteria may access benefits starting in 2025 if the Department of Social and Health Services determines they require assistance for at least three activities of daily living.
There is no option to cash out the contributions made if benefits are not used.
What if I move or am retiring soon?
Currently, the funds can only be used in Washington. People who move out of state can’t take the benefit with them, and those who currently live out of state but work for companies in the state won’t get the benefit.
People who retire before they meet the required number of years contributing to the fund won’t receive the benefit.