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If your family is planning to move, you may be wondering what will happen to your child's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) benefits. Many parents worry that moving to another county will cause their services to stop or require them to start the application process all over again.
While moving to a new county can affect how your case is managed, it does not automatically mean your child will lose IHSS benefits. Understanding the transfer process can help make the transition smoother and reduce interruptions in services.
IHSS is administered by individual counties, but it is part of a statewide program. When you move from one California county to another, your case generally transfers to the new county.
The receiving county will become responsible for managing your child's IHSS case, including future reassessments and ongoing case administration.
Although benefits often continue during the transfer process, it is important to notify both counties as soon as you know you will be moving.
In many cases, the new county will conduct its own assessment after your move. A county social worker may visit your home to evaluate your child's current needs and verify that the authorized services remain appropriate.
This reassessment does not automatically mean your child's hours will increase or decrease. However, because each county reviews cases independently, the new assessment may result in changes if the county determines that your child's care needs differ from the previous evaluation.
Being prepared for the assessment can help ensure your child's needs are accurately documented.
Before moving, it is helpful to gather important records related to your child's IHSS case.
These may include:
Having these documents readily available can help the new county better understand your child's ongoing care requirements.
A move alone does not automatically change the number of authorized IHSS hours. However, if the new county determines that your child's needs have changed—or reaches a different conclusion during its assessment—the authorized hours could increase, decrease, or remain the same.
If you disagree with any changes made after the reassessment, you may have the right to appeal the county's decision.
Carefully reviewing your new Notice of Action is important so you understand any changes and applicable appeal deadlines.
To help avoid delays or interruptions in services, consider taking these steps:
Staying organized can help make the transfer process as smooth as possible.
Moving to another county can feel overwhelming, especially when your child depends on IHSS services. While your case will typically transfer rather than start over, questions or disagreements may arise during the new county's assessment process.
If your child's benefits are reduced, delayed, or denied after moving, an experienced IHSS attorney can review your case, explain your rights, and help you determine whether an appeal or other action may be appropriate.
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].
