6 Quick Tips to Reduce IHSS Application Frustration

A crucial piece of our work with families involves demystifying public benefits and helping families access the services and benefits they need and deserve. And we hear a lot about frustrations related to applying for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). IHSS is a Medi-Cal program that provides home-based personal care and related services so that people with disabilities can remain safely in their communities instead of being placed in an institution due to their significant care needs. Below are 6 quick tips to reduce frustration through the application process.

1. Understand the facts about eligibility

One of the most common misconceptions we hear from families is that they assume they are not eligible for IHSS. Here are three key facts about eligibility:

• Eligibility for IHSS is not income-based. This is the most common misconception we hear related to eligibility.
• Eligibility is not age-based. Many parents are told that their child is too young to qualify if they are under age 5, which is untrue. An IHSS application cannot be denied simply based on your child’s age.
• Eligibility is all about your kid’s specific needs. Oftentimes families assume that a specific diagnosis means they will qualify for IHSS, but it’s not that simple. Undivided Public Benefits Specialist Lisa Concoff Kronbeck notes, “A diagnosis alone does not equal eligibility for IHSS. A disability is required for a child to qualify for IHSS, but everything [specific services and number of hours] is based on your child’s specific care needs, and those must be above and beyond what a typically developing child would be expected to receive from their parents.”

2. Mentally prepare for an initial denial

It is very common to be denied for IHSS the first time around, but many families succeed after appealing by requesting a state hearing. Set your expectations accordingly!

3. You cannot be denied by phone

Unfortunately, we have heard from families who have been told they are not eligible for IHSS on the phone. Concoff Kronbeck urges that there is no such thing as “denial by phone.” If an IHSS employee tells you over the phone that your child isn’t eligible, apply anyway. Concoff Kronbeck recommends this response: “I understand. I would like to apply anyway. If my child is denied, they can send me a written notice of action.” And then if you receive a written denial, submit an appeal.

4. Document the date you submit your IHSS application

The simple act of documenting the date you submit your IHSS application is crucial. “Benefits are retroactive from the date of application,” says Concoff Kronbeck. The date you submit the initial application is your protected date of eligibility, and if your child is found to be eligible, payments should be made retroactively to this date. Concoff Kronbeck notes that this remains the case if your application is delayed due to lost paperwork or if you resubmit due to denial of services. Also notable? If you appeal the denial and your child is later found eligible, IHSS will pay retroactive benefits to the date you first applied.

5. Make copies

Concoff Kronbeck emphasizes the importance of never handing over your only copy of a document—for example, a form signed by a doctor. “Keep copies of everything, because things get lost all the time. These offices have thousands and thousands of consumers whose files are going in and out and it is very common for things to get misplaced or for things to never make it into the file,” noted Concoff Kronbeck.

6. Confirm receipt of documentation at every turn

Submitting the initial IHSS application involves three main components, the first two being finding your local IHSS office and submitting the application and all relevant paperwork. The third step is crucial and is one that families often aren’t aware of: Confirm with IHSS that all documentation has been received. You will need to confirm receipt for each set of documents you submit throughout the application process.

To learn more about IHSS, check out the resource links below. And consider an Undivided membership so you can access step-by-step guides and a customized planning and organization platform for your child.