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Common Questions

“How is it paid? Do I pay out of pocket?”

  • IHSS is a Federally funded and State operated program which aims to keep people in their homes with the aid they need to stay comfortable and happy. California’s IHSS program currently pays $19 an hour (overtime and benefits when applicable). 

  • You are assigned a number of workable hours that pertain to your needs. Your Caregiver will submit these hours online through the etimesheets website portal. You will then be called by an automated service to approve the Caregivers hours. You may deny the hours if it is incorrect. 

  • You are allowed to compensate your Caregivers more from your own pocket if you desire, but it is not ever required.

 

“Can a family member be my provider?”

  • Yes absolutely, as long as they are a US Citizen who is a California Resident and who has not committed any “Tier 1” Convictions or “Tier 2 Exclusionary” Crimes in the past 10 years

 

“What if my needs change?”

  • You are assigned a Social Worker through IHSS when you sign up for the program. They will be available to call if you have any of your needs change or have questions.

 

“Can I work before approval?”

  • Yes, you can start work for your client up to 90 days before your paperwork is completed only if your Client is already signed up for IHSS and calls to approve you. You will be backdated and paid for your time upon completion of hiring and paperwork

 

“What if I’m denied?”

 

“Do I need experience as a Caregiver?”

  • It is always more helpful to have more experience, but different Clients have different needs. Some Clients only need grocery shopping and floor sweeping, others are more involved. 

  • This is why it is important to contact your Client or Caregiver before the first day of work to interview for further details

 

“What Is IHSS?”

  • In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a California program that helps people who need assistance remain safely in their own homes.

  • IHSS provides non-medical, in-home care. It does not include nursing or medical services.

  • The program is designed to support individuals who might otherwise need to live in a care facility

 

“Who IHSS Is For?”

  • The elderly

  • Disabled or blind children or adults

  • People who cannot live safely at home without help

  • Short-term or long-term help

 

“What does IHSS cover?”

  • IHSS caregivers help with everyday, non-medical tasks

  • House cleaning and laundry

  • Meal preparation

  • Grocery shopping and errands

  • Transportation to/from appointments

  • Personal care, like bathing or grooming

  • Help with daily routines

The exact services depend on the individual’s needs and what IHSS approves.

 

“How do I choose a Caregiver”

  • IHSS allows individuals receiving services to choose their own caregiver. They can be a family member, friend, or another approved provider (IHSS background checks all of its Caregivers before approval)

  • Navigate to the “Find a Caregiver” page to get started looking for someone!

  • The interview process is personal to your own needs and conditions. You should call your new prospective Caregiver ahead of time and ask them any pertaining questions

Both the client and caregiver must complete IHSS requirements before services can begin

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