Young Adult Benefits Management Program

The Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) is soliciting proposals under RFP 27-DCYF-FB-001 for the Young Adult Benefits Management Program. The objective is to secure a qualified contractor to provide statewide financial management and fiduciary support services for eligible youth in Extended Foster Care, in accordance with Senate Bill 5911. The contractor will be responsible for coordinating Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits, managing representative payee services, and administering specialized financial accounts, such as Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts, to ensure the protection and management of youth assets. The contract is estimated to be valued at 150,000 dollars or less, with an initial six-month term starting January 1, 2027, and ending June 30, 2027. It may be extended up to five times for one-year increments through June 30, 2032. For the first fiscal year, the maximum payable amount is 66,000 dollars. Award preference is given to the lowest responsive and responsible small business or veteran-owned business, with a weighted evaluation system of 125 points considering cost, written responses, and specific preference points for Washington self-certified small businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and compliance with Executive Order 18-03. Qualified bidders must be licensed in Washington State and demonstrate expertise in fiduciary services for vulnerable populations and SSA benefit administration. Key requirements include strict adherence to data security protocols, including the signing of non-disclosure agreements and a one-business-day breach notification window. The contractor must also comply with various federal non-discrimination laws and provide the Office of State Auditor and DCYF access to records for up to six years following contract termination. Responses are due by November 30, 2026, and must include specific certifications, response forms, and a detailed cost proposal.