What Should I Do If My IHSS Timesheet Is Rejected or Delayed?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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].