Caregiver background check rules in Washington

Yes. Washington requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients, using fingerprints. Home care agency providers hired on or after 2012-01-07 must complete a fingerprint-based check of Washington State Patrol and FBI records at initial hire. Agency licensing rules also require Washington State Patrol criminal history checks and department-approved disclosure statements, renewed every two years.

What does the check include?

What should you confirm with the state?

Home care aides must be certified under chapter 18.88B RCW. The continuing education law may change on January 1, 2027; confirm current requirements with the Washington State Department of Health.

What other checks should you run?

Agencies that bill Medicaid or Medicare should also check the HHS Office of Inspector General exclusion list before hire and monthly, because payments for services by an excluded person can be recovered. If you use a background screening company, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires written disclosure and the applicant's authorization first.