WA Cares Fund

Steps for opting out of the WA Cares Fund

If you meet the criteria and want to apply for a permanent exemption to the state’s long-term care program, the WA Cares Fund, and associated payroll deduction, follow the steps below.

1. You must have purchased qualifying private long-term care insurance before Nov. 1, 2021.
2. Apply for an exemption on the WA Cares Fund website.
3. If your application is approved by the Employment Security Department (ESD), they will send you an exemption approval letter.
4. You must present your exemption approval letter to all current and future employers. The ESD does not notify employers.
5. Submit a copy of your exemption approval letter and your nine-digit PeopleSoft ID number by:
   • Email: WA.Cares.Exemption.Letters@kingcounty.gov. (Note: Questions about the WA Cares program should be sent to wacaresexemptions@esd.wa.gov.)
   • U.S. Mail: 401 Fifth Ave., Mailstop CNK-HR-0230, Seattle, WA 98104.