How to apply for COPES Waiver (Medicaid Long-Term Care at Home) in Washington

Who it's for

COPES lets Washingtonians who need nursing-facility-level care get that care at home or in a community setting instead — personal care, adult day health, home modifications, and more. For 2026, monthly income must be $2,982 or less (the Medicaid special income level) and countable resources $2,000 or less for one person, with spousal protections for married applicants. A DSHS CARE assessment determines the level-of-care need. Contact the local Home and Community Services office or call 1-855-567-0252 to start.

What you'll need

• Proof of income
• Proof of resources
• Medical/functional information for the CARE assessment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about COPES Waiver (Medicaid Long-Term Care at Home). 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 proof of income, proof of resources, medical/functional information for the CARE assessment — 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 your proof of income and proof of resources. For married applicants, collect financial documents for both spouses, since spousal-impoverishment rules may protect more resources.
2. Collect any medical or functional information that supports your need for nursing-facility-level care. This will be used during the CARE assessment.
3. Contact your local Home and Community Services office or call 1-855-567-0252 to start your application. You can also apply online through Washington's application portal.
4. Complete the DSHS CARE assessment. A DSHS assessor will review your medical and functional information to determine whether you meet the nursing-facility level of care required for COPES.
5. Submit all required documents — proof of income, proof of resources, and your medical or functional information — as requested by your Home and Community Services office.
6. Work with your Home and Community Services office to finalize your eligibility determination. They will review your income, resources, and CARE assessment results to make the official decision.

What to expect: After submitting your application and completing the CARE assessment, the Home and Community Services office will review your income, resources, and level-of-care results to determine eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your local office for an estimate. If approved, COPES can help cover services like personal care, adult day health, and home modifications so you can remain at home or in a community setting. Eligibility is reviewed annually, so be ready to provide updated income, resource, and medical information each year to keep your benefits active.

Renewals

annual