The program is designed to help individuals stay in their homes and avoid institutionalization. However, it is hard to get approved for IHSS, and sometimes individuals may be denied services. If you have been denied IHSS in California, there are steps you can take to appeal the decision.
Of those who do get approved, it can take anywhere from two weeks to several months to finally receive benefits. This is due to the meticulous amount of paperwork involved, as well as the process of the case worker assessment, background check, and other procedures.
The applicant income limit is equivalent to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). While this figure increases annually in January, for California Medicaid, the income limits increase each April. Effective 4/1/24, the monthly income limit for the IHSS program for a single applicant is $1,732.
Under the law, you are ineligible to work in the IHSS program ONLY if you have been convicted within the last 10 years of: 1) fraud against a government health care or supportive services program; 2) child abuse; or 3) abuse of an elder or dependent adult.
You (or your authorized representative) must complete PART A of this form to let the county know who you have chosen to provide your authorized services. If you have multiple providers, you must fill out a separate form for each person who will be providing authorized services for you.
To become a caregiver in California, meet state requirements (work authorization, background check, good health), complete a Home Care Aide certification course and provide proof of vaccinations and a negative TB test.
How to Become an IHSS Provider Go to an IHSS Provider Orientation given by the county. Complete, sign and return the IHSS Program Provider Enrollment Form (SOC 426) directly to the County IHSS Office or IHSS Public Authority. Complete and sign the IHSS Provider Enrollment Agreement (SOC 846) .
Apply Complete the online IHSS application. Call (559) 600-6666 and chose Option 1 to apply over the phone. Complete an Application for Social Services (SOC 295) English | Spanish and return it to IHSS by one of the following ways:
Go to an IHSS Provider Orientation given by the county. Here you will learn important information about the program and the requirements for you to follow as a provider. Complete, sign and return the IHSS Program Provider Enrollment Form (SOC 426) directly to the County IHSS Office or IHSS Public Authority.
IHSS Provider Online Enrollment and Orientation Step 1: Begin the Online Enrollment Process. Step 2: Attend your Scheduled In-Person Appointment at Social Services. Step 3: Attend an In-Person Appointment with SEIU 2015 California's Long-Term Caregivers. Step 4: Complete and Pass your Background Check.