Information for Assisted Living Facility Professionals

Announcements

New Rules effective January 1, 2026, to comply with federal Home and Community Based Settings (HCBS) requirements.

The rules require AFH, ALF, and ESF to have a “residency agreement” with residents who have Medicaid as a payor. The purpose of the agreement is to provide resident protections for eviction and appeals comparable to the Residential Landlord Tenant Act. AFH, ALF, and ESF must also provide written notice to Medicaid residents of their right to legal assistance when issuing a notice of transfer or discharge.

• Find the provider letter, slide deck presentation, Q & A, and FAQ here.
• Optional forms available for use on January 1, 2026:
  • HCLA Residency Agreement Language Template (DSHS 16-302).
  • Notice of Transfer or Discharge (DSHS 15-458). The form will be available December 22, 2025, for use beginning January 1, 2026. Access the form by clicking the link in this message after Dec 22nd. The form can be used for all resident discharges, but use of the form is not required. If you choose to use the Notice of Transfer or Discharge form, distribution of the form to the Long-term Care Ombuds and DSHS case manager is required only for residents with Medicaid:
    • Long-Term Care Ombuds:  email the Notice of Transfer or Discharge to Discharges@mschelps.org  or send by e-fax (253) 216-3699.
    • DSHS case manager: use your established methods to send the Notice of Transfer or Discharge.
• The long-term care discharge defense screening line phone number on is (888) 437-0017. This number will not be active until January 5, 2026. You must include it in any discharge notice to a resident with Medicaid beginning January 1, 2026. The resident will be able to reach someone on or after January 5, 2026. This number must also be included in your residency agreement.
• Find more information about this and other RCS rulemaking projects here ALTSA RCS Rulemaking | DSHS (page updates in progress, check back regularly).

Please ensure you are using the current ALF License Application (DSHS 10-591). Effective September 1, 2025, applications received with a revision date other than July 2025 (REV. 07/2025) in the bottom left-hand corner will be rejected.

Retention Toolkit Available. Providers and administrators can access free supervisory tools, online courses, and free CEs through CareLearnWA, a provider of training and resources for direct care staff. The Retention Toolkit helps supervisors and managers of direct care staff address retention issues, reduce high turnover rates, and continue providing quality care. The toolkit will be initially available to supervisors of staff who are not members of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Available modules include Onboarding, Communication, Recognition, and Wellness, and a new module addressing Harassment, Abuse, and Discrimination of caregivers. Set up a free account and access the toolkit by visiting https://carelearnwa.com/.

Background checks during and after licensure:

• For new license applications
• For change of ownership

Latest Guidance Regarding COVID-19

If you have any questions regarding Assisted Living Facilities and the application process, please reach out to Resource Support and Development at resourcedevelopment@dshs.wa.gov.