What Tasks Are Not Covered by IHSS?

If you or your child receives IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services), it’s important to understand both what care is covered and what tasks are not eligible for payment.

Knowing this helps prevent errors on timesheets, avoids issues with your social worker, and ensures compliance with state regulations.

1. Tasks Not Related to the Recipient’s Health or Safety

IHSS is designed to help individuals with medical, physical, or cognitive limitations. Tasks that do not directly support health, safety, or daily functioning are generally not covered.

Examples include:

• Household chores unrelated to care (deep cleaning, yard work, laundry for the whole family)
• Pet care (feeding, walking, or cleaning up after pets)
• Babysitting siblings or other family members
• Cooking meals for the household at large, beyond the needs of the IHSS recipient

The key principle: IHSS only pays for tasks that directly benefit the eligible recipient.

2. Activities Outside Approved Hours

Even covered tasks may not be paid if performed outside your approved IHSS schedule. For instance:

• Cooking meals when the recipient is away at school or work
• Supervision during times the recipient does not need care
• Errands not specifically required for the recipient’s medical or safety needs

Timesheets must reflect only hours actually spent providing care.

3. Activities Already Provided by Other Services

If your child or family already receives services through another program—such as school staff, therapists, or residential care programs—IHSS generally cannot duplicate those services.

Examples:

• Special education staff providing daily academic or behavioral support at school
• Therapy sessions covered by Medi-Cal or other programs
• Meals or nutrition support provided at a licensed facility

IHSS fills gaps, it does not replace other programs.

4. Tasks That Are Not Medically Necessary

IHSS focuses on tasks required for health, safety, and daily living. Tasks that are convenience-based are not covered, such as:

• Grooming beyond what is medically or developmentally necessary
• Bathing or hygiene for someone who does not need assistance
• Recreational activities, unless supervision is required for safety

Your social worker will assess what is necessary for your child’s care and protective supervision.

5. Travel or Transportation Not Directly Related to Care

IHSS hours may cover transportation related to medical care or necessary daily activities, but commuting unrelated to care is not covered. Examples of non-covered travel:

• Driving family members to work or school
• Running personal errands for the caregiver
• Trips for recreation or social activities not required for safety

Tips to Avoid Timesheet Issues

• Document only hours spent providing approved IHSS care
• Separate household chores from recipient-specific care tasks
• Keep notes from your social worker about approved tasks
• Check your IHSS handbook or county guidelines for the most current list of covered and non-covered tasks

Being thorough and accurate helps prevent payroll delays or audits.

Bottom Line

IHSS is designed to support the health, safety, and daily living needs of eligible individuals. Tasks that do not directly relate to care, supervision, or medically necessary assistance are not covered.

If you’re unsure whether a task is allowed, always check with your IHSS social worker before logging it on your timesheet. Proper documentation protects both your hours and the program’s integrity.

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].