In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)

The IHSS Program will help pay for services provided to you so that you can remain safely in your own home. To be eligible, you must be over 65 years of age, or disabled, or blind. Disabled children are also eligible for IHSS. IHSS is considered an alternative to out-of-home care, such as nursing homes or board and care facilities. Click here for more information on IHSS eligibility.

The types of services which can be authorized through IHSS are housecleaning, meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, personal care services (such as bowel and bladder care, bathing, grooming and paramedical services), accompaniment to medical appointments, and protective supervision for the mentally impaired.

Important Notice For IHSS Providers About Changes to the Federal Medi-Cal In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program

For Whom

You may be eligible for IHSS if you:

  • Are a current recipient of Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP); or
  • You meet all the eligibility criteria for SSI/SSP except that your income is in excess of the SSI/SSP income levels; or
  • You meet all the eligibility criteria for SSI/SSP, including income, but do not receive SSI/SSP; or
  • You are a Medi-Cal recipient who meets SSI/SSP disability criteria.

Where To Get Help

To apply for IHSS, complete an application and submit it to the local IHSS office at the county welfare department. To find your local office, look for the closest county welfare department office listed under the County Government Section in the telephone book.