Can You Collect WA Cares After Moving Out of Washington?
Navigating portability update provisions, deadlines, and cross-border income compliance.
When the program first launched, relocating outside of Washington State meant forfeiting all previous payroll contributions. To address this issue, the state legislature introduced an out-of-state portability framework that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
1. Mandatory Qualifications for Out-of-State Coverage
To take your earned benefit status with you when moving across state lines, you must meet three strict requirements:
- You must have contributed to WA Cares for a minimum of 3 total years (with at least 500 hours logged per year) before relocating.
- You must officially opt-in and notify the Employment Security Department (ESD) within one year of moving your primary residence.
- You must continue paying premiums on any out-of-state wages earned during your remaining working years, using the state's upcoming income tracking systems.
2. Payout Timelines and Operational Delays
While you can register to keep your coverage active starting in 2026, out-of-state participants will not be able to actively draw from the benefit pool until July 1, 2030. This delay gives the state time to build cross-border provider networks and verification systems.