Medicaid and COPES for care homes in Washington
Medicaid pays for long term care for many Washington families. The main program for care at home, in Adult Family Homes and in assisted living is called COPES (Community Options Program Entry System). Nursing home care is covered by Medicaid as well.
7 minute read · Updated October 13, 2026 · All guides
What COPES pays for
COPES pays for personal care, such as help with bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, walking and medications. It can pay for that care at home, in an Adult Family Home, in an adult residential care facility or in assisted living. The resident usually pays part of their own income toward room and board and care; DSHS works out that amount.
Not every home accepts Medicaid. Use the Medicaid filter and ask each home whether it accepts Medicaid now and if savings run out later.
Who qualifies
Care needs. DSHS looks at whether your loved one needs extensive help with two or more daily activities. A case manager does an interview called a CARE assessment to decide.
Money. As of the most recent figures (reviewed March 2026), the limits are:
- Income: about $2,982 a month or less. People with higher income may still qualify but pay more toward their care.
- Assets for a single person: $2,000.
- A spouse at home can keep up to $72,529 in assets, plus some of the applicant’s income.
- Not counted: the home, one car, household goods and an irrevocable burial fund.
These numbers change most years. Check the current figures with DSHS or Washington LawHelp before you plan.
How to apply
- Apply for the money side online at Washington Connection, by mail, or at a local DSHS office.
- Ask for a care assessment from your local DSHS Home and Community Services (HCS) office. Each county guide lists the intake number.
- Name a family member as an authorized representative so DSHS can talk with you and send you copies of letters.
- Start looking at homes that accept Medicaid while you wait. Homes need to know a resident is approved or in process.
Good to know
- Estate recovery. After a Medicaid client dies, the state may seek repayment from their estate, which can include a lien on a home they owned.
- Gifts and transfers made before applying can delay eligibility. Talk to an elder law attorney before moving money or property.
- Private pay first is common. Many families pay privately for a time, then apply for Medicaid. Ask homes in writing whether they will keep a resident who switches to Medicaid.
- WA Cares is a separate benefit. Learn how it works.
A Wayvo guide can point you to homes that accept Medicaid and help you through the steps.
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