WA HB1711

Starting January 1, 2026, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families is prohibited from using benefits, payments, or funds received by or on behalf of a person in its care as reimbursement for the cost of care

The department must screen all persons in out-of-home placement for eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security disability/survivors benefits, and apply for benefits on behalf of eligible individuals

When serving as representative payee, the department must place funds in accounts for the person's unmet personal needs, and invest excess funds in ABLE accounts, special needs trusts, or savings accounts that won't affect benefit eligibility

The threshold for depositing funds into savings accounts is increased from $500 to $2,000, and annual account statements must be provided to the person and relevant parties

Financial literacy training covering public benefits must be provided to youth age 14 and older who are exiting care and receiving or likely eligible for benefit payments