Washington looks back 60 months — the five years before the month someone became institutionalized, or would have but for a penalty, and applied for long-term care. The state also keeps reviewing any transfers made during or after that month once someone has attained institutional status.
That review can knock out institutional or waiver eligibility. If the applicant, a spouse, or someone acting on either one's behalf gave away an asset for less than it was worth during the review window, a penalty period can follow unless an exception or specific proof carves out an exemption.