Your Path to Care
Your independence matters. So does having support along the way.
When everyday activities become more difficult, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. Word of Life offers caring, step-by-step guidance to help community members understand Washington’s public long-term care insurance benefits and navigate the application process.
About the program
Preparing to launchLast updated 25 September 2026
Whether you are exploring support for yourself or helping someone you love, our team is here to listen, answer questions, and explain the next steps.
We welcome people from all backgrounds within our service area.
What Is Long-Term Care?
Long-term care means help with everyday activities when a health condition, disability, injury, or changes related to aging make those activities difficult.
This may include assistance with bathing, eating, moving around, or managing medications. Support can help people remain safer, more comfortable, and more independent in daily life.
What Benefits May Help Cover
Depending on your approval, available benefit balance, and program rules, covered services may include:
- Help with personal care at home.
- Meals delivered to your home.
- Transportation for covered needs.
- Equipment or home modifications that improve safety and accessibility.
- Support that gives family caregivers a break.
- Care in an eligible residential setting.
In some circumstances, a family member may qualify to become a paid caregiver after completing the required hiring and training process.
These are examples of benefits available through the program. Word of Life helps you understand the options and application process; care is delivered by registered providers.
How Word of Life Can Help
Our trained Community Assistors can help you:
- Understand the program’s benefits, requirements, and limitations.
- Learn what to expect during the application process.
- Gather and review required documents.
- Complete application information.
- Upload documents and submit your application through the designated system.
- Understand the next steps after you receive a decision.
You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who May Qualify for Benefits?
For Washington residents, eligibility generally requires:
- Being at least 18 years old.
- Meeting the program’s work contribution requirements.
- Needing help with at least three qualifying daily activities, with that need expected to continue for at least 90 days.
The activities assessed include bathing, eating, managing medications, moving around, using the toilet, moving in bed, and getting between a bed, chair, or standing position. Supervision or reminders needed to complete an activity may also count.
There are different ways to meet the contribution requirements, including a pathway for partial benefits for people born before 1968.
Our team can help explain these requirements. Authorized program staff review your contribution history and care needs and make the final eligibility decision.
Understanding the Benefit Amount
In 2026, the full benefit amount is $36,500, with adjustments over time for inflation. Some people qualify for a smaller, partial benefit.
This is a lifetime benefit for covered care, rather than an annual payment or a cash grant for general expenses. Your approval letter will explain the amount you have earned. Approved services are paid through the program to registered providers.
What Happens Next?
- Ask questions. Contact our team to discuss the assistance you need.
- Prepare your application. We can guide you through the information and documents required.
- Receive an eligibility review. Authorized program staff review your contributions and assess your care needs.
- Review your decision. If approved, you can explore registered providers and arrange covered services, with the required authorization.
Personal Assistance
One-on-one, in-person assistance is part of this service. Contact our team to discuss appointment availability and assistance locations within our service area.
Language and Accessibility
Tell us your preferred language and any accessibility needs when you contact us. We will discuss the assistance and arrangements available to help you participate comfortably.
Service Area
We provide assistance within our designated Washington State service area. Contact us to confirm whether we serve your community.
Getting Started
You are welcome to begin with a question. We will listen, explain how we can help, and guide you through the next steps with patience and respect.
Would You Like to Learn More?
Visit the official program website for current eligibility requirements, covered services, benefit information, and application guidance.
Understanding Our Role
Word of Life provides information and application assistance. Eligibility and benefit decisions are made by authorized program staff. Application assistance does not guarantee approval. This service does not provide medical treatment or hands-on personal care.