WorkFirst is Washington State’s temporary cash assistance program. The goals of the WorkFirst Program is to help low-income families stabilize their lives, so they can go to work and take better care of their families. Parents who can work will work, parents who cannot work will be supported, and parents who choose not to work will be held accountable. Washington initiated the WorkFirst program in August 1997 to help low-income families become self-sufficient by providing training and support services necessary for parents to get a job, keep a job and move up a career ladder.
Under WorkFirst, welfare assistance in Washington State is no longer an entitlement. Cash assistance is limited to a maximum of 60 months (five years) in a person’s lifetime. During that time, the person must be involved in the WorkFirst program and working or actively looking for a job. However, benefits may be extended beyond 5 years for parents who continue to abide by the rules and seek work. Adults who are unable to participate will continue to receive assistance.