Update for IHSS Recipients

If you are an IHSS recipient and have questions about a letter you received from California Department of Social Services (CDSS) regarding MediCal Share of Cost (SOC) please contact the California Department of Social Services at the toll free number for more information 1-877-508-1327.

Applying for IHSS

Consumers, family, friends, physicians, or anyone who has knowledge about a consumer’s needs can make a referral to IHSS.

  • When calling to apply, it is helpful to have the following information:
  • Social security number
  • Telephone number
  • Income and assets information
  • Your health information, including doctor’s name and telephone number

After an initial telephone screening, an IHSS social worker will come to your home and talk with you about your service needs. The Social Worker’s in-home needs assessment determines which services are needed and how frequently. The Social Worker authorizes, increases, decreases, and terminates services for the IHSS consumer based on “needs assessment” and yearly reassessments. State law establishes the standards for the types of services and the hours of services that can be authorized.

Who is Eligible?

People who are disabled, blind, or 65 years of age and disabled, who are unable to live safely in their own home without help, and are financially unable to purchase the needed services are eligible for IHSS.

Man getting help out of a wheelchair

Client Registry Services

IHSS eligible recipients can hire one or more people to provide their care.  The IHSS Public Authority Registry can assist with finding a provider. A computer-generated list of caregivers is provided to clients according to location, personal care needs, work schedule and other job-related preferences.  The client interviews, hires and supervises the caregiver they choose. 

The Registry Services and referral lists are free for all individuals who have been approved for In-Home Supportive Services. 

Client Services

Recruiting and Screening IHSS Caregivers

Locating caregivers can be a difficult process. The Registry recruits and pre-screens providers prior to making them available to be referred out to clients.  

Person at computer with images of contact silhouettes
Planners in open drawers

Access to a Database of Available Caregivers

Registry providers are required to update their information on a monthly basis to report any changes in address, telephone number or days available to work.  When providers update their information, this helps the Public Authority maintain a database of available caregivers to refer out to clients.

Potential Caregivers Interview Assistance

Public Authority Social Workers help clients with Interview Assistance by phone or in their own home. The Public Authority helps clients understand the process of reviewing the list of names, scheduling interviews, selecting, hiring, employing, supervising and if necessary, firing the providers.

Woman conversing with someone across the table