How to Access In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Through Regional Centers

Introduction

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a California program that helps people with disabilities remain safely in their own homes. For families receiving services through a regional center, IHSS can provide essential in-home assistance for children with developmental disabilities.

This guide walks you through how to access IHSS with support from your regional center, what services IHSS covers, and how to advocate for the level of care your child needs.

1. What Is IHSS and Who Is It For?

IHSS is a Medi-Cal-funded program that pays caregivers to help individuals with disabilities perform daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility. Children and adults with developmental disabilities may qualify if they:

• Are eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal
  
• Have a physical or mental impairment expected to last more than 12 months
  
• Require assistance with at least one activity of daily living
  
  

Services are provided in the individual’s home and can be delivered by a family member, friend, or professional caregiver.

2. What Is the Role of Regional Centers in the IHSS Process?

While IHSS is a separate program administered by the county, regional centers often assist families with:

• Understanding IHSS eligibility and application steps
  
• Providing documentation that supports your child’s need for in-home care
  
• Attending assessments or fair hearings
  
• Coordinating services between IHSS and other supports in the child’s IPP or IFSP
  
  

Your regional center service coordinator can be an important ally throughout the IHSS process.

3. How Do You Apply for IHSS?

1. Call your county’s IHSS office and ask to start an application.
   
2. Complete the Health Care Certification form (SOC 873) with your child’s doctor.
   
3. Wait for a home visit from a county social worker who will assess your child’s needs.
   
4. Submit any documentation that supports your child’s limitations (e.g., regional center reports, IEPs, medical records).
   
   

You can request help from your regional center service coordinator when preparing for the home assessment.

4. What Services Does IHSS Provide?

Depending on the child’s needs, IHSS may cover:

• Assistance with dressing, bathing, feeding, and grooming
  
• Mobility and transfers
  
• Meal preparation and clean-up
  
• Laundry and light housecleaning
  
• Protective supervision (for children who are at risk of injury if left unsupervised)
  
  

Protective supervision is often the most important service for children with autism, intellectual disabilities, or behavioral challenges.

5. How Is IHSS Approval Determined?

The county social worker evaluates your child’s ability to complete daily activities safely. They consider:

• Medical documentation
  
• Observations during the home visit
  
• Parent interviews
  
• Regional center assessments or IPP goals
  
  

Your child’s approved hours will depend on the level of care they require. You have the right to:

• Receive a Notice of Action with the decision
  
• Appeal if you disagree with the number of hours granted
  

6. How Can You Strengthen Your IHSS Case?

Families can support their application by:

• Keeping a daily care log that shows what your child needs help with
  
• Asking the regional center for a letter summarizing your child’s functional limitations
  
• Preparing to explain specific safety concerns or behaviors
  
• Collecting written statements from teachers or therapists
  
  

Clear documentation and firsthand examples can make a strong case for protective supervision and other services.

7. Real-Life Example

Maya’s 9-year-old son with autism was nonverbal and prone to elopement. With support from her regional center, she submitted a letter detailing his behavioral challenges and safety risks. IHSS granted 283 hours per month, including protective supervision, and Maya became her son’s paid caregiver.

8. Conclusion

IHSS can provide critical in-home support for children with developmental disabilities, easing the caregiving burden on families. With guidance from your regional center and strong documentation, you can advocate for the hours and services your child needs.

If you’re unsure where to begin, start by asking your service coordinator to explain how IHSS works in your county. The right support can help you navigate the process with confidence.