Commission hears detailed explanation of '3 of the last 6 years' and other eligibility pathways

Commission staff spent a substantive portion of the meeting explaining eligibility mechanics and administrative implementation of the three pathways to WA Cares benefits.

Andrea Milos Sanchez, interim WA Cares director, explained the ordering of determinations: Employment Security Department (ESD) first checks for the permanent pathway (10 years), then the temporary pathway (3 of the last 6 calendar years), and finally the transition pathway for people born before 1968 who may receive a prorated share. "If no, then they check to see did they meet the temporary pathway. If no, then they check to see did they meet the transition pathway," Andrea said while walking commissioners through look‑back and vesting logic.

Commissioners sought concrete examples and raised concerns about confusing terminology: several questioned why the term “temporary” is used for a pathway that provides a permanent entitlement if the applicant meets conditions at the application date. Andrea acknowledged the confusion and said staff have presented the design both as "early access" and as the "temporary pathway" and will work to clarify language in public materials.

Staff stressed the care‑needs requirement in addition to contribution history: applicants must demonstrate assistance needs (help with three or more activities of daily living for at least 90 days, or cognitive needs requiring supervision). Andrea noted that the commission previously recommended these pathways and that the legislature codified the 3‑of‑6 approach to keep the program solvent while serving early‑need claimants.

Commissioners asked staff to produce clearer online tools and annual statement language so workers can evaluate their qualifying years without filing for benefits prematurely.