SecureAccess Washington (SAW) Replacement

Progress update: September 2025

Project is in initiation phase which is focused on scope definition and conducting detailed planning. 

During this reporting period, the SAW (Secure Access Washington) Replacement Project made solid foundational progress. The project team finalized updates to the charter, refining scope, objectives, and deliverables, and completed internal reviews in preparation for sponsor approval. Key analysis was completed on the existing SAW environment and ServiceNow integration opportunities, and internal business analysts were successfully onboarded to support the next phase of work. Additionally, the team documented current chatbot support workflows to inform future-state planning. With charter finalization, project kickoff, and engagement planned for the coming weeks, the project is well-positioned to move into execution.

Read the complete project status update.

Overview

Washington’s SecureAccess Washington (SAW) portal served as a statewide login for over two decades. While it was groundbreaking in 2003, the technology is no longer meeting user needs.

We’re replacing SecureAccess Washington (SAW) with simpler, faster, and more secure digital tools that work better for everyone—residents, visitors, businesses, and state agencies.

We’re building a new single sign on portal (WA.gov) to replace SAW that:

• Makes it easier to find and use state services.
• Offers a single login through a new WA.gov account.
• Protects user privacy and strengthens security.
• Helps agencies deliver better, more consistent service.

The DEX Program is actively delivering the SAW Replacement Project. WA.gov will replace SAW as the state’s online portal and will include a new Customer Identity & Access Management (CIAM) system.

The DEX Program will replace SAW with:

• WA.gov Portal: A modern, accessible website that helps people find and manage services
• WA.gov Accounts: A secure single sign-on system that allows people to manage their state profile with improved user privacy, security, and control

In 2025–2026, we’re focused on:

• Launching the Portal Open Beta in fall.
• Continuing to onboard early agencies to the new WA.gov account login.
• Introducing shared features like service search, account management, and personalized recommendations.
• Collaborating with agencies to plan for SAW decommissioning by 2027.