How to apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)

Who it's for

IHSS pays for a caregiver to come to the home and help an aged, blind, or disabled person with personal care, housework, meal preparation, shopping, and other daily activities — keeping people out of nursing facilities. Hours are assessed by a county social worker based on individual need (up to 283 hours per month for severely impaired participants). The caregiver can often be a family member, including an adult child or spouse. IHSS requires Medi-Cal eligibility as a prerequisite.

What you'll need

• Proof of California residency
• Proof of age, blindness, or disability (whichever pathway applies)
• Medi-Cal card or Medi-Cal application confirmation
• Health Care Certification form (SOC 873) — completed by your doctor to document need for personal care
• Identification of preferred caregiver, if applicable

Where to apply

Renewals

annual (re-assessment of need and Medi-Cal eligibility)