WA SB5911

Beginning January 1, 2027, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families may no longer use benefits, payments, or funds paid to or on behalf of foster youth ages 18-21 as reimbursement for cost of care

The department must assess whether foster youth ages 18-21 are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security disability/survivors benefits, and assist eligible individuals in becoming their own payee

The department must help youth establish appropriate financial accounts to receive benefits, including Washington ABLE accounts, checking/savings accounts, or other electronic banking options

When youth need additional support managing benefits, the department must attempt to identify a suitable authorized representative; if none is found, the department may serve in that role or contract with an external entity

The threshold for depositing a foster youth's funds into savings or investment accounts increases from $500 to $2,000, with funds for youth ages 18-21 to be conserved rather than applied against public assistance costs