Announcements
2026 DDCS/HCS Policies and Procedures Training Series for AFH Providers
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Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) and Home and Community Services (HCS) of the Home of the Community Living Administration are excited to offer the 2026 Policy and Procedure Training Series for adult family home providers. This is a four-part training series that offers up-to-date information on policies and procedures regarding the different services your residents may receive through DDCS or HCS. Presenters will include subject matter experts from both DDCS and HCS. Trainings are free of charge and will be 90 minutes in length and offer 1.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). You must be present for the entirety of the training to receive the Session 1 Programs and Eligibility February 17, 2026, 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Registration is required for the training link. Your registration email should include:
How to participate: Training is provided via the TEAMS virtual platform. Participants will receive the link after they are registered. |
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 2015 version of the form is currently posted for use until January 1, 2026. Ensure you use the new form starting January 1, 2026. The form can be used for all residents. Distribution of the form to the Long-term Care Ombuds and DSHS case manager is required only for residents with Medicaid:
- DSHS case manager: use your established methods to send the Notice of Transfer or Discharge.
- Long-Term Care Ombuds: email the Notice of Transfer or Discharge to Discharges@mschelps.org or send by e-fax (253) 216-3699.
- The long-term care discharge defense screening line phone number 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).
AFH License Application process informational slideshow
Reporting Abuse and Neglect in Adult Family Homes Webinar (May 7, 2024 Recording)
AFH online license application note: There are certain symbols that can create errors or prevent submission in the completed application. Do not use the following symbols &, =, +, or #. Instead, use the following terms: (and) (equals) (plus) (number sign), spelling out the words, with parentheses on either side. See the updated Instructions for the license application for details. We are researching a permanent fix to this issue and will advise you of any changes.
Background checks during and after licensure:
If you have any questions regarding the Adult Family Home (AFH) application process, please contact the Business Analysis and Applications Unit at baau@dshs.wa.gov. If you have general questions about opening an AFH, please reach out to Resource Support and Development at resourcedevelopment@dshs.wa.gov.