The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides critical support for children and adults with disabilities so they can safely remain in their homes. However, not all types of care or assistance are covered under this program. If you’re a parent or caregiver applying for IHSS for your child, it’s important to understand what services IHSS does not pay for—so you can plan accordingly and avoid confusion during the application process.

IHSS Only Covers Certain Types of Care

IHSS is designed to support daily living needs that help a person remain safely in their home. These are tasks the individual would not be able to perform on their own due to their physical, mental, or developmental condition.

But it does not cover everything a caregiver might do. Below are some of the key services that IHSS does not cover:

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1. Medical Services or Skilled Nursing Tasks

IHSS providers are not expected or allowed to perform skilled medical procedures. This includes:

• Administering injections (other than insulin)
• Inserting or caring for feeding tubes
• Wound care requiring medical training
• Catheter insertion or maintenance (unless very basic)
• Adjusting oxygen flow without direction

While IHSS allows certain paramedical services, these must be ordered by a doctor and approved by the program. They still do not include most skilled nursing care.

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2. Supervision for Educational or Employment Activities

IHSS does not pay for time when:

• A child is at school (even if they need supervision there)
• A caregiver is helping with homework or tutoring
• A provider is accompanying someone to a job or vocational program

Even if your child needs 1:1 support during those times, IHSS won’t cover it. The program focuses on care needed inside the home, not during public activities.

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3. Household Tasks Not Related to the Recipient’s Needs

IHSS providers are allowed to perform some domestic chores (like cooking, cleaning, or laundry), but only if they are specifically for the person receiving IHSS.

It does not cover:

• Cleaning the entire house or spaces unrelated to the IHSS recipient
• Cooking for the whole family
• Doing household laundry not used by the child
• General yard work or home maintenance

If a parent is caring for their child, tasks must be clearly for that child’s benefit.

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4. Childcare or Babysitting

Many parents are surprised to learn that IHSS does not pay for typical childcare. The state assumes that all children require a certain level of supervision based on age, so IHSS only pays for care that goes above and beyond what is considered age-appropriate.

You cannot receive IHSS for:

• Watching your child while you work or run errands
• General babysitting services
• Supervision of a child without specific, documented needs

Only Protective Supervision is covered, and even that has strict criteria and must be medically justified.

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5. Transportation to Non-Medical Activities

IHSS does not pay for:

• Driving your child to school
• Taking them to social events, therapy groups, or extracurriculars
• Running errands or shopping (unless directly related to their IHSS needs)

Transportation is only covered when it’s essential to medical appointments or to get medical supplies.

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Final Thoughts

IHSS is a valuable program, but it has strict limitations. The focus is on help with personal care and safety within the home, not general parenting, household help, or skilled medical care. Knowing what’s not covered can help you prepare better for your assessment and avoid misunderstandings about what services you or your child may be eligible for.

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].

If you're a paid caregiver through California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)—especially if you're a parent caring for your own child—a rejected or delayed timesheet can be stressful and financially disruptive. Fortunately, most issues can be resolved with the right steps.

Here’s what to do if your IHSS timesheet is rejected or delayed, and how to prevent it in the future.

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1. Identify the Reason for Rejection

When your timesheet is rejected, you should receive a notification—either by mail or in your online IHSS account—stating the reason. Common reasons include:

• Missing or incorrect hours
• Overlapping hours with another provider
• EVV (Electronic Visit Verification) errors
• Dates outside the pay period
• Incomplete or unsigned timesheet
• Provider or recipient information mismatch

Tip: If you're unsure, call the IHSS Timesheet Processing Unit or check the ESP (Electronic Services Portal) for error codes or alerts.

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2. Correct the Problem Quickly

Once you understand the issue, fix it as soon as possible:

• Paper Timesheet: You may need to request a replacement timesheet if the original was filled out incorrectly. Use black ink, write clearly, and make sure both provider and recipient sign it.
• Online Timesheet (ESP): You may be able to correct errors directly in the system or withdraw and re-submit the timesheet with the right information.
• EVV Users: If you forgot to check in/out or the system shows overlapping time, go into the app or portal and correct the entries before resubmitting.

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3. Contact IHSS for Help

If you’re stuck or didn’t receive any explanation, don’t wait—contact IHSS right away:

• IHSS Provider Help Line: 1-866-376-7066 (available M–F)
• County IHSS Office: Your local office can provide more specific help and escalate issues if needed.
• Electronic Services Portal (ESP): Log in at https://www.etimesheets.ihss.ca.gov to check status and make corrections.

Keep records of every call you make, who you spoke to, and what was said.

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4. Check for Processing Delays

Sometimes the timesheet is correct, but payment is simply delayed due to:

• System errors
• High volume of submissions
• Holidays or weekends
• Banking issues (especially for direct deposit)

To track a payment:

• Log into the ESP
• Go to the “Payment History” section
• See if the timesheet has been received, approved, or issued

If your payment was issued but not received, contact Provider Direct Deposit Help Desk: 1-866-376-7066.

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5. Prevent Future Problems

Avoid delays and rejections by:

• Submitting timesheets on time
• Carefully reviewing hours before submitting
• Keeping a copy of each timesheet
• Ensuring recipient and provider signatures are complete and accurate
• Using the EVV mobile app correctly every time

If you’re new to EVV or online timesheets, take advantage of free IHSS training webinars or your county’s orientation support.

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Final Thoughts

A rejected or delayed IHSS timesheet can cause unnecessary stress, but it’s usually fixable. The key is to act quickly, stay organized, and communicate clearly with IHSS.

If your timesheet was delayed through no fault of your own and you’re experiencing hardship, ask your county if emergency pay assistance is available.

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].

If you're applying for California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) for a child or adult with disabilities, you may have come across the term Protective Supervision. But how is it different from standard IHSS services? Understanding the distinction is key to getting the right level of support for your family.

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What Is Regular IHSS?

IHSS provides support to help people with disabilities or chronic conditions live safely at home. For children and adults, regular IHSS services may include:

• Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Meal preparation and feeding
• Diapering and toileting
• Mobility assistance
• Light housework
• Accompaniment to medical appointments

The number of hours approved depends on the individual’s ability to complete these tasks on their own.

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What Is Protective Supervision?

Protective Supervision is an additional IHSS service for individuals with severe mental impairments who need constant supervision to stay safe.

It’s not about helping with physical tasks—it’s about providing non-medical observation to prevent injury due to unsafe behaviors such as:

• Running into traffic
• Climbing out windows
• Ingesting harmful items
• Wandering away from home

Protective Supervision can provide up to 24 hours of paid care per day if eligibility requirements are met.

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Key Differences

Category	Regular IHSS	Protective Supervision
Purpose	Assist with daily tasks	Prevent injury due to unsafe behavior
Based On	Physical and/or cognitive limitations	Mental impairment and safety risk
Type of Help	Hands-on personal care	Non-medical supervision
Hours	Limited to approved tasks	Up to 24 hours/day
Requires Diagnosis?	Sometimes	Yes—must be a mental/psychiatric condition
Common Conditions	Physical disabilities, age-related needs	Autism, epilepsy, intellectual disability, psychiatric disorders

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How to Qualify for Protective Supervision

To be approved, you must show that:

• Your child or dependent has a qualifying mental impairment
• They lack awareness of personal safety
• You or another caregiver provide ongoing supervision to prevent injuries
• The need for supervision is continuous, not just occasional

You’ll need detailed documentation, including the SOC 821 form, a doctor’s statement, and specific examples of unsafe behaviors or incidents.

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Final Thoughts

Regular IHSS helps with basic care needs. Protective Supervision goes a step further, offering intensive support for those at high risk of injury due to mental impairments. If your child needs constant watchfulness for safety, Protective Supervision may be essential.

Understanding the difference can help you build a stronger IHSS application—and ensure your family gets the full support it needs.

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].

If you’re caring for a child with a disability or chronic health condition through California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, you may have heard about something called Paramedical Services — but what exactly does that mean?

More importantly:
Can you, as a parent or caregiver, get paid for providing those services?
The answer is yes — and understanding this part of IHSS can make a big difference in how your child’s care is recognized and supported.

The answer is yes — and understanding this part of IHSS can make a big difference in how your child’s care is recognized and supported.

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What Are Paramedical Services?

Paramedical Services under IHSS are tasks that:

• Are prescribed by a licensed medical professional, and
• Would normally be performed by a nurse or trained medical staff,
• But are being done at home by a non-medical caregiver (like a parent).

These are not basic daily tasks like bathing or feeding — they are medically necessary procedures that require special training, supervision, or instruction.

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Examples of Paramedical Services

Here are some common tasks that qualify:

• G-tube feedings or care
• Seizure management and emergency intervention
• Oxygen administration or suctioning
• Diabetes management (insulin injections, blood sugar monitoring)
• Wound care
• Catheter care
• Medication administration (if prescribed and requires oversight)
• Use of adaptive medical equipment (CPAP, ventilators, etc.)

If your child has a medical condition that requires you to do any of the above, you may be eligible for paid Paramedical hours.

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Can a Parent Be Paid for These Services?

Yes. IHSS allows a parent provider to be paid for Paramedical Services if:

• The task is prescribed by a doctor, and
• The parent receives instruction and supervision (typically informal training from a healthcare provider), and
• The child cannot safely perform the task on their own.

This is especially important for parents of children with complex medical needs, where caregiving goes well beyond what is typical for the child’s age.

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How to Get Paramedical Services Approved

To receive IHSS hours for Paramedical Services, you need to:

1. Have the doctor complete form SOC 321

This is the official Paramedical Services Request form, and it must:

• Describe each task in detail (what, how often, how long)
• Be signed by an MD, NP, or other authorized professional
• Indicate that the parent has been instructed in how to do the task

2. Submit the form to your county IHSS office

It will be reviewed during your child’s IHSS assessment or reassessment.

3. Discuss with the IHSS social worker

Be prepared to explain how often each task is done, how long it takes, and how the child would be at risk without it.

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How Many Hours Can You Get?

The number of authorized hours will depend on:

• Frequency of the task (daily, multiple times a day?)
• Duration of each task
• Whether tasks are done separately or grouped together
• The child’s ability to cooperate or tolerate the procedure

For example:

• A child who requires G-tube feeds 4 times a day at 30 minutes each may receive 60–120 hours/month, just for that one task.

Paramedical hours can be approved in addition to Protective Supervision and other IHSS services.

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Tips for Success

• Be specific when listing tasks on the SOC 321 — “medications” isn’t enough; write “administer 4 prescribed oral meds 3x/day.”
• Keep a care log of how long each task takes — it helps support your claim.
• Make sure your doctor understands that this form affects your IHSS benefits — and needs to be accurate and detailed.

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Bottom Line

Paramedical Services are one of the most underutilized parts of IHSS — and often overlooked by parents who are already providing complex medical care at home.

If you’re doing tasks that go beyond typical parenting — and you’re trained or instructed by a doctor — you have the right to be paid for that work under IHSS.

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 changehappen 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].

Raising a child with special needs is a journey filled with love, challenges, and countless responsibilities. For parents who are also In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) providers, the road can feel even more complex — balancing caregiving, paperwork, advocacy, and self-care. If you've ever asked yourself, “Am I the only one going through this?” — you're absolutely not alone. There is a growing community of IHSS parents who share your experiences and understand the unique challenges you face. And connecting with them can make a world of difference.

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Why Support Groups Matter

Support groups offer a space to share your experiences, vent frustrations, ask questions, and — most importantly — realize you’re not alone. Whether you're struggling with IHSS paperwork, appealing for more hours, or just feeling overwhelmed, having others who understand the system can be incredibly validating.

Benefits of IHSS-related support groups include:

• Emotional support from parents who "get it"
• Tips for navigating reassessments or applying for protective supervision
• Updates on policy changes or new resources
• Access to sample documents, letters, or scripts
• A place to share victories — big and small

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What Kind of Workshops Are Available?

Workshops often cover:

• Understanding IHSS rules and your rights
• How to apply for or increase protective supervision hours
• Preparing for social worker home visits
• Filing an appeal after a denial or cut in hours
• Caregiver self-care and burnout prevention

Many are offered by advocacy organizations, regional centers, parent networks, or legal aid groups. Some workshops are virtual (via Zoom), while others are held in person within local communities.

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Where to Find Support Groups & Workshops

Here are a few places to start your search:

1. Regional Centers (California)

Most regional centers offer family resource centers or can refer you to local workshops. Ask about IHSS-specific events.

2. Facebook Groups & Online Communities

There are active and supportive Facebook groups like:

• “IHSS Advocacy for Children with Special Needs”
• “IHSS Parent Support Group (CA)”
• “Special Needs Mom Support – California”

These groups often share upcoming workshops and answer real-time questions.

3. Disability Rights Organizations

Groups like Disability Rights California, Family Voices of California, and Parents Helping Parents (PHP) regularly host webinars and legal clinics.

4. Nonprofit and Legal Aid Organizations

• Public Authority offices in each county often have caregiver support events.
• Legal Aid at Work or Neighborhood Legal Services may host IHSS education events.

5. Your IHSS Social Worker or Public Authority

They may not always mention it, but some counties offer provider orientations, trainings, and even mental health workshops for caregivers.

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Final Thoughts

Being an IHSS parent is a full-time commitment — mentally, physically, and emotionally. But you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you're looking for practical tips or just someone who understands your daily reality, support groups and workshops can offer tools and connection.

Reach out, plug in, and remember: asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

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].