How to apply for Family Caregiver Support Program — Washington

Who it's for

Washington's Family Caregiver Support Program helps unpaid caregivers of adults who need care. Through the local Area Agency on Aging, caregivers get a TCARE assessment and tailored plan, respite care, training, counseling, and support groups — free or low cost. Call Community Living Connections at 1-855-567-0252 to get connected.

What you'll need

• A description of the caregiving situation and the help needed

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Family Caregiver Support Program — Washington. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need a description of the caregiving situation and the help needed — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather a description of your caregiving situation, including the type of care you provide and the help you are looking for.
2. Contact Community Living Connections by phone at 1-855-567-0252 or apply online to get connected to your local Area Agency on Aging.
3. Speak with a Community Living Connections specialist, who will ask about your caregiving situation and the support you need.
4. Complete a TCARE assessment with your local Area Agency on Aging. This assessment helps identify your needs as a caregiver and guides the support plan.
5. Work with your local Area Agency on Aging to build a tailored care plan. Services may include respite care, training, counseling, and support groups, based on available funding.
6. Renew your participation each year to continue receiving services.

What to expect: After you reach out, Community Living Connections will connect you to your local Area Agency on Aging. A specialist will complete a TCARE assessment with you and create a plan tailored to your caregiving needs. Services such as respite care, training, counseling, and support groups are arranged based on that plan and available funding. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate of when services can begin. Because this program serves the unpaid caregiver — not the adult receiving care — it appears as a may-qualify result. Participation is reviewed annually, so be ready to confirm your caregiving situation each year to keep services in place.

Renewals

annual