The purpose of the individual development accounts (IDA) program is to create incentives and support for savings and purchases of major assets by low-income people in Washington state. IDAs will promote job training, home ownership, and business development among low-income individuals and provide assistance in meeting the financial goals of low-income individuals. Additionally, a special IDA program for foster youth is described below.

The changes made in state statute to create this program can be found in RCW 43.79A.040 and chapter 43.31 RCW.