Compliance
Do You Need a License to Run a Non-Medical Home Care Agency?
In most states, yes. How the license depends on the services you offer, what six states actually require, what applications ask for, and how to check your state.
Do you need a license to run a home care agency in Washington?
Last verified October 17, 2026 · All Washington resources
Yes. Washington requires a state license to run a non-medical home care agency: the In-Home Services Agency license (home care category), issued by the Washington State Department of Health. Any person who employs or contracts with two or more individuals to provide in-home services must hold a Department of Health in-home services agency license before advertising or operating. Home care services are nonmedical services, such as personal care, household support and respite, for ill, disabled, or vulnerable people. Exemptions are listed in RCW 70.127.040 and 70.127.050.
What are the key facts?
| License required | Yes |
|---|---|
| License | In-Home Services Agency license (home care category) |
| Regulator | Washington State Department of Health |
| Fee | $5,000 initial (12-month) license per service category; 24-month renewal from $2,400 to $3,700 by FTE count ($1,700 to $2,600 reduced rate) |
| Renewal | Every 2 years (initial license runs 12 months) |
| Rule | WAC 246-335; chapter 70.127 RCW |
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 should you budget for?
The license fee is a small part of startup cost. Insurance, payroll for your first caregivers before clients pay, and office staff usually cost far more. Use the bill rate calculator to check your pricing covers it, and the intake form and care plan templates for the paperwork inspectors ask to see.
More for Washington
Agency licensing by state: other states
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General
How to Start a Non-Medical Home Care Agency: Step by Step
Ten steps to open a non-medical home care agency, from services and state licensing to insurance, hiring, payers, systems and first clients, with real fees.
Compliance
How Long Does It Take to Get a Home Care License?
Plan on 2 to 6 months in most licensing states. Statutory review clocks are 60 to 90 days, but they start only when your application is complete.
General
Home Care Agency Startup Costs: A Line-by-Line Budget
What it costs to open a non-medical home care agency: real state license fees, insurance minimums, office, hiring, software and the working capital most owners underestimate.
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