What Documents Do I Need for the IHSS Application?

If you’re applying for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) in California to help care for your child with special needs, one of the first questions that comes up is: “What documents do I need to submit with the application?” The IHSS application process can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right paperwork can make a big difference. Here's a breakdown of what you’ll need—and what can strengthen your case.

Basic Required Documents

When you apply for IHSS, your county social worker will need to confirm your child’s eligibility. That starts with:

1. Proof of Identity and Residence

Parent’s ID (driver’s license or state ID)
Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
Child’s birth certificate or proof of guardianship, if applicable

2. Proof of Medi-Cal Eligibility

IHSS is a Medi-Cal program, so your child must be on Medi-Cal.
If you haven’t already applied, you’ll need to do that first.

3. Completed IHSS Application (SOC 295)

This is the standard IHSS application form. You can get it from your county office or download it online.

Supporting Medical & Educational Documents

The more documentation you provide about your child’s needs, the better. These records help justify the level of care you’re requesting:

4. Medical Records or Doctor’s Letters

Diagnosis or treatment summaries from pediatricians or specialists
Letters explaining your child’s daily care needs and limitations
If applying for protective supervision, have the doctor complete SOC 821

5. Therapy Reports

Reports from occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, or ABA providers
Any recent evaluations describing delays or behavioral concerns

6. IEP or School Reports

Your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), if they have one
Behavioral incident reports or safety concerns documented by the school

Optional but Helpful Documents

These aren’t required, but can strengthen your case, especially if you're requesting protective supervision or a higher number of hours.

7. Daily Care Log

A written log or schedule showing what care you provide every day
Include bathing, feeding, diapering, supervision, and behavioral support

8. Incident Logs or Photos

Notes or photos showing injuries, accidents, or risky behavior due to your child’s condition
Documentation of wandering, self-harm, or medical emergencies

9. Letters from Care Providers or Case Workers

Letters from regional center workers, social workers, or in-home therapists can help explain your child’s needs from a third-party perspective

Final Tips

Be specific: Vague statements like “my child needs help” won’t get the same results as detailed documentation.
Keep copies of everything you submit.
Organize your documents before the social worker’s in-home visit so you’re ready to show them.

The Bottom Line

The IHSS application isn’t just about filling out a form—it’s about showing the state that your child needs extra care to stay safe and healthy at home. With the right documents in hand, you’ll be in a much stronger position to get the hours and services your child deserves.

Need help? In California, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides crucial financial help for families raising children with special needs. American Advocacy Group is on the front lines every day, making positive change happen for people diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, and a range of diagnoses across the continuum. As a leading advocate for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, and the premier provider of the support and services people want and need, we understand the system and know how to take action regarding your best interests.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].

What Is Protective Supervision and How Do I Get It?

If you're caring for a child with special needs through California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, you may have heard of something called protective supervision—but what is it, exactly? And how do you qualify?

Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you know what to expect and how to apply if your child needs this essential benefit.

What Is Protective Supervision?

Protective supervision is an IHSS service for individuals—including children—who need 24/7, non-medical supervision to stay safe in their own homes.

This benefit is designed for people who:

Have mental impairments or cognitive disabilities (such as autism, intellectual disability, or certain neurological conditions)
Are at risk of injury to themselves or others
Require constant monitoring, even if they are physically capable

It’s not about hands-on care like feeding or bathing. Instead, it’s about watching over your child to prevent dangerous behaviors or accidents.

What Are Examples of Behaviors That Might Qualify?

To qualify for protective supervision, you need to show that your child has unsafe behaviors due to a mental condition. Common examples include:

Wandering or running into the street
Putting objects in their mouth
Climbing furniture or windows
Self-injury (like head-banging or biting)
Aggression toward others
Lack of awareness about danger (like touching hot surfaces or leaving the house alone)

How Do I Apply for Protective Supervision?

Here are the basic steps:

Request it from your IHSS social worker
You must specifically ask for “protective supervision” during your IHSS assessment or reassessment.
Gather documentation
This is critical. You’ll need written support from:
- Your child’s doctor
- Therapists or behavioral specialists
- IEPs or school incident reports
- Any other documentation showing your child’s mental condition and unsafe behaviors
Complete the SOC 821 form
This is the official IHSS “Request for Protective Supervision” form. Your child’s doctor will need to complete part of it, confirming the need for 24-hour supervision.
Describe specific incidents
During the assessment, be prepared to explain:
- What behaviors put your child at risk
- How often they occur
- What could happen without supervision
- Any past injuries or near-misses

Be honest and specific. Downplaying the severity of your child’s needs can result in a denial.

What If I’m Denied?

Many parents are initially denied protective supervision, but go on to win on appeal. If you receive a denial:

Request a state hearing within 90 days
Gather additional evidence
Consider working with an advocate or legal representative who specializes in IHSS cases

Final Thoughts

Protective supervision is one of the most misunderstood—and often underutilized—services under IHSS. But for families caring for children with cognitive disabilities and behavioral challenges, it can be a vital source of both financial supportand validation of the care you provide every day.

If you think your child qualifies, don’t wait. Start gathering documentation and request an assessment or reassessment. With the right preparation, you can get the support your family needs.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].

Does IHSS Income Affect My Other Public Benefits?

If you’re receiving income through California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program—whether as a provider or a recipient—it’s important to understand how that income may impact your eligibility for other public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medi-Cal, CalFresh (food stamps), or Section 8 housing. The answer is not always straightforward, but we’ll break it down for you here.

What Is IHSS Income?

IHSS pays individuals to care for elderly or disabled people (including family members) in their own homes. The goal is to allow people to remain safely in their communities rather than being institutionalized. IHSS payments are considered income to the provider, but how they’re treated by other benefit programs depends on your role and your relationship to the recipient.

1. Does IHSS Income Affect SSI?

It depends on who you're caring for.

Parent caring for a minor child OR spouse caring for a spouse: If you’re living in the same home and caring for your own child or spouse through IHSS, that income is excluded from your countable income for SSI purposes. This means it will not reduce your SSI benefits.
Caring for someone else (not your child or spouse): If you’re an IHSS provider for someone other than your own minor child or spouse, then the IHSS income is counted and can reduce your SSI benefit.

Why? This special rule comes from a Social Security policy exception (often referred to as the “In-Home Parent/Spouse Provider Exclusion”).

2. Does IHSS Income Affect Medi-Cal?

Again, it depends on the situation:

If your only income is IHSS payments for caring for your child or spouse, and you live together, then that income is not counted for Medi-Cal eligibility in most cases.
However, if you have other income or are paid to care for someone else, that income may count and could affect Medi-Cal eligibility depending on your income limits.

Good news: Medi-Cal offers several programs with different income limits, so even if some income is counted, you may still qualify.

3. Does IHSS Income Affect CalFresh (Food Stamps)?

CalFresh usually does count IHSS income, unless it qualifies for the spouse/parent provider exclusion.

If you're caring for your own child or spouse and live with them, your IHSS income may be excluded and won’t impact your CalFresh benefits.
If you're caring for someone else, that income is counted and could reduce your food stamp amount.

4. Does IHSS Income Affect Housing Benefits (like Section 8)?

Section 8 housing authorities typically count IHSS income when calculating rent and eligibility, even if other programs exclude it. However, you should report all income and let your local housing authority determine how they treat IHSS pay, as policies can vary slightly.

Key Takeaways:

IHSS income is sometimes excluded, sometimes counted—it depends on your relationship to the person you care for and the benefit program.
For SSI and Medi-Cal, if you’re caring for your own child or spouse and live with them, IHSS income is generally not counted.
For CalFresh and Section 8, IHSS income is usually counted, but there are exceptions.
Always report all income, and ask about special exclusions based on your caregiving relationship.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].

How Do I Track and Submit My IHSS Timesheets?

As an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregiver, accurately tracking and submitting your timesheets is essential to ensure that you’re compensated for the hours you work. The process can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the program or if your care schedule is complex. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through how to track your IHSS hours and submit your timesheets correctly to ensure timely payment.

What Are IHSS Timesheets?

IHSS timesheets are the official record of the hours you work as a caregiver. You use them to report the number of hours you’ve spent providing care to your client (usually a family member) and to request payment for your services.

For most caregivers, timesheets are the primary way that the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and local counties track care hours and process payments.

Step 1: Tracking Your IHSS Hours

Accurate tracking of the hours you work is crucial. Here are a few simple tips to help you stay organized and avoid discrepancies:

1. Use a Calendar or Planner

Set up a system to keep track of the hours you work daily. Whether you use a digital calendar, planner, or physical log, jot down the exact time you begin and finish each caregiving task.
Break down tasks: If you’re providing multiple types of care (bathing, meal preparation, mobility assistance), make a note of how much time you spend on each task. This will help you allocate time correctly when filling out your timesheet.

2. Record Start and End Times

Be sure to record the exact start and end time for each caregiving session, including any breaks. For example, if you work from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, write it down clearly in your log. Avoid approximations, as the IHSS office will need accurate time records to process your payment.
If you provide care for multiple shifts in a day, keep a separate log for each shift.

3. Track Special Activities and Overtime

If you work overtime (more than 40 hours per week), keep track of those hours. Overtime pay typically kicks in at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate. Be sure to mark these overtime hours clearly in your log so that they can be reported correctly on your timesheet.

4. Double-Check Your Total Hours

At the end of the week, total the hours worked for each day and double-check your math. Mistakes can happen, but careful tracking will help avoid errors when you fill out your official timesheet.

Step 2: How to Submit IHSS Timesheets

Once you’ve tracked your hours, it’s time to submit your timesheet to request payment. There are two main ways to submit your IHSS timesheet: online or by mail.

1. Submitting Timesheets Online

California offers an online system called “eTimesheet”, which is an easy way to submit your timesheets electronically.

How to Submit Timesheets Online:

Create an Account: First, you need to sign up for the eTimesheet system at www.etimesheets.ihss.ca.gov. You will need to have your Social Security Number (SSN) and other identification details ready.
Enter Your Hours: Log in to the eTimesheet portal, select the correct pay period (bi-weekly), and enter your start and end times for each day worked.
Review for Accuracy: Double-check that your total hours for each day are correct. You’ll be able to see the total number of hours you’re claiming for each pay period.
Submit the Timesheet: Once everything looks correct, click “submit” to send the timesheet to the county for processing. Both you and the person receiving care (the recipient) will need to approve the timesheet electronically before payment is processed.
Confirmation: After submission, the system will confirm your timesheet has been received. It’s a good idea to print or save a copy of the confirmation for your records.

2. Submitting Timesheets by Mail

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can still submit your timesheet via mail. You will receive paper timesheets from your local IHSS office.

How to Submit Timesheets by Mail:

Fill Out the Paper Timesheet: The paper timesheet will have spaces for you to record your hours worked each day. Write the exact start and end times for each caregiving session.
Sign and Date the Timesheet: Both you (the caregiver) and the person receiving care must sign and date the timesheet before submitting. The recipient’s signature is important as it confirms the hours you’ve worked.
Mail the Timesheet: Send the completed and signed timesheet to the address provided by your county. You can find this address in the instructions that came with the timesheet.
Wait for Payment: After your timesheet is processed, the county will send you your payment. Keep in mind that mail submissions may take longer to process than online submissions.

Step 3: Approving Your IHSS Timesheet

Once you’ve submitted your timesheet, it’s not yet complete—both you and the person receiving care must approve it. Here’s how to do that:

Online Approval:

The recipient will receive an email or notification that a timesheet has been submitted and will need to log in to the eTimesheet system to approve it. This is an important step to ensure your hours are verified and processed.
After approval, the county will review the timesheet, and if everything is correct, your payment will be processed.

Paper Timesheet Approval:

If you’re submitting a paper timesheet, the recipient must sign and date it before it is mailed back to the county. The recipient’s signature is used to verify that the hours you worked are accurate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Timesheets

To avoid delays or issues with your payment, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Not Recording Exact Start and End Times: Always be specific when entering your hours—rounding to the nearest hour or estimating can cause discrepancies that delay payment.
Forgetting to Sign or Date the Timesheet: Missing signatures or dates, especially from the recipient, can prevent the timesheet from being processed.
Submitting Late: Make sure to submit your timesheet on time, as failure to do so can cause delays in receiving your payment.
Not Tracking Overtime Properly: If you’re eligible for overtime pay, make sure to separate regular and overtime hours clearly.
Errors in Totaling Hours: Double-check your totals to ensure there are no mistakes in your hours worked.

Tips for Making the Process Easier

Use a timesheet app or spreadsheet: Consider using a simple spreadsheet or an app to track your daily hours. This can save you time when it’s time to enter your hours into the official timesheet.
Set reminders: If you use the eTimesheet system, set reminders for when to submit your timesheet or when your pay period ends.
Keep records: Keep a copy of every submitted timesheet and any confirmation emails. This will help if there are ever any issues with payment.

Conclusion: Accurate Timesheet Submission Is Key to Timely Payment

Tracking and submitting your IHSS timesheets might seem like a tedious task, but it’s essential for ensuring that you’re paid accurately and on time. By tracking your hours, double-checking your timesheet, and submitting it either online or by mail, you can help make the process as smooth as possible.

With the right systems in place—whether it's using an online timesheet, tracking your hours in a planner, or ensuring timely submission—you can be confident that your hard work as an IHSS caregiver will be properly compensated.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].

How Does the New Minimum Wage Affect My IHSS Payment?

As an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregiver, you play a critical role in ensuring that individuals with disabilities or elderly family members receive the care they need. Given the physical and emotional demands of caregiving, it's important to be compensated fairly for your work. That's where minimum wage laws come into play—especially if you live in California, where the minimum wage is periodically adjusted.

In this blog post, we will explore how the new minimum wage laws affect your IHSS payment and what you need to know to make sure you're being paid appropriately for the care you provide.

What Is IHSS?

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a California state program that provides financial assistance to families and individuals who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. IHSS allows caregivers to be compensated for the time they spend assisting with these tasks.

IHSS caregivers can be family members or non-family members, but the pay rate is usually determined by the minimum wage in the county where the services are provided.

How Does the Minimum Wage Affect IHSS Payments?

The amount you are paid as an IHSS caregiver is directly tied to the local minimum wage in your county. This means that whenever the minimum wage increases, your pay as an IHSS provider will likely increase as well. The wage increase could result from new statewide wage laws or local wage ordinances that mandate a higher minimum wage.

Here’s how it works:

California Statewide Minimum Wage: California has a statewide minimum wage law that sets a baseline rate for wages. This applies to most workers, including IHSS providers. The wage rate is adjusted annually, typically tied to inflation or other economic factors. In 2023, the statewide minimum wage in California for employers with 26 or more employees is $15.50 per hour, while smaller employers may have different rates.
County-Specific Minimum Wage: In addition to the statewide minimum wage, some counties in California have local minimum wage ordinances that require higher rates than the state minimum wage. These counties have the authority to set a minimum wage rate that is above the state-mandated rate. For example, counties like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland may have higher minimum wages due to local legislation.
Impact on IHSS Providers: As an IHSS provider, your wage will follow whichever minimum wage is higher: the state minimum wage or your county’s local wage. When the minimum wage increases, your hourly rate of pay as an IHSS caregiver will also increase accordingly.

When Does the New Minimum Wage Take Effect?

The impact of a new minimum wage depends on the timing of its implementation:

Statewide Increases: In California, any changes to the state minimum wage typically happen in January of each year. This means that any changes made to the state’s wage rate will reflect in your IHSS paycheck starting at the beginning of the new year.
County-Specific Increases: Counties that have local wage laws may update their minimum wage rates at different times of the year. It’s essential to check your county’s local labor laws to stay updated on when these increases take effect. These changes will also affect your IHSS pay.

How Can You Find Out How Much You Will Be Paid?

Review Your Timesheets: IHSS providers should carefully review their timesheets to ensure that they reflect the correct wage rate for their county. If the minimum wage in your area has increased, the pay rate listed on your timesheet should reflect that change.
Check County or State Websites: The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and your county's IHSS office will provide details on the current minimum wage rates for your area. If you’re in a county with a local wage ordinance, check your county’s website for updates on new wage laws.
Contact Your IHSS Office: If you’re unsure about your pay rate or when it will change, you can always contact your local IHSS office to clarify the situation. They will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding wage rates and how they affect your pay.

What Other Factors Can Affect Your IHSS Pay?

In addition to minimum wage changes, there are other factors that can influence your IHSS pay:

Overtime Pay: If you work more than 40 hours per week, you may be eligible for overtime pay. Overtime is usually paid at 1.5 times your standard hourly rate. This is important to know if you are providing intensive care to someone who requires long hours of support.
Changes in Your Hours: If the number of hours you work changes—either due to adjustments in the care plan for your loved one or other factors—you may see a fluctuation in your overall pay. These changes will be reflected in the timesheets you submit.
Wage Deductions or Taxes: While IHSS wages are often exempt from federal Social Security and Medicare taxes for family caregivers, non-family caregivers are subject to these taxes. You may see deductions from your paycheck depending on your tax status. Be sure to track these deductions to understand how they impact your overall take-home pay.

What Can You Do to Make Sure You’re Paid Correctly?

To ensure you’re getting the correct pay as an IHSS provider, here are a few tips:

Track Wage Updates: Stay updated on any new minimum wage laws in your county and statewide. Subscribe to newsletters from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) or your county’s IHSS office to receive timely updates.
Ensure Your Pay Rate is Correct: Double-check that your pay rate on your timesheet matches the current minimum wage for your area. If it doesn’t, reach out to your IHSS office to correct the discrepancy.
Document Your Hours: Accurately record the hours you work to ensure you’re compensated for every minute of caregiving. Mistakes happen, but keeping clear records can help resolve issues quickly.
Consider a Tax Professional: If you're unsure how the wage increase affects your taxes or if you’re a non-family caregiver subject to taxes, consider consulting a tax professional. They can provide guidance on how to properly file your taxes based on your earnings.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Get Paid What You Deserve

As an IHSS caregiver, it’s essential to stay informed about the impact of minimum wage increases on your pay. In California, both the state minimum wage and local ordinances can affect how much you earn. When the wage increases, your pay will likely go up too, but it’s important to make sure your timesheets and payment rate are correct.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].