Registry Enrollment

Every county in California runs an IHSS Provider Registry — a list of enrolled providers that recipients and social workers can search when they need a caregiver. If you’re not on the registry, you’re invisible to anyone who uses it.

How it works:

When an IHSS recipient is approved for services but doesn’t have a provider in mind, their social worker can pull names from the registry. Recipients can also search it themselves. Either way, being on the list is one of the most direct ways to get matched with someone who needs care.

How to get on the registry:

You sign up through your county’s IHSS office or Public Authority. The process varies slightly by county but generally involves:

Completing a provider enrollment application
Passing a background check
Attending an orientation session
Some counties let you indicate your availability, the languages you speak, the tasks you’re willing to perform, and the areas you can travel to. Fill out every field. The more detail you provide, the easier it is for someone to find you as a match.

Keep your information current. If your phone number, availability, or service area changes, update your registry profile. A recipient who can’t reach you will move on to the next name.

For detailed steps on enrolling as a provider, see our Becoming a Provider page.

Networking

Getting listed on your county’s registry is a great first step, but it’s not the only way to connect with clients. providers who stay booked typically combine registry listing with social media, community presence, and professional relationships.

social media

• facebook groups: join groups like IHSS CONNECT PROVIDERS & RECIPIENTS where providers and recipients post daily looking for matches. search facebook for “ihss” plus your county name to find local groups.
• facebook marketplace: create a listing as a caregiver offering services. include your area, availability, languages spoken, and any specialties like dementia care or mobility assistance. recipients and their families browse marketplace regularly.
• nextdoor: post in your neighborhood feed that you are an experienced ihss provider with availability. neighbors often know someone who needs help — family members especially.
• reddit: communities like r/IHSS and r/CaregiverSupport are useful for both advice and finding clients. your local city subreddit can work too.

community networking

• senior centers and adult day programs: ask if they have a bulletin board or newsletter where you can post your availability.
• churches, temples, and faith communities: many congregations have members who need in-home care and prefer someone recommended by their community.
• libraries: most have community boards where you can post a simple flyer.
• independent living centers (ilcs): disability resource centers in your area often connect providers with recipients. find your local ilc

professional relationships

• other providers: build relationships with ihss providers in your area. when they are fully booked or moving, they may refer clients to you.
• provider orientations and job fairs: some counties host these events. check with your public authority (use the registry lookup tool above) to see if yours does.
• ihss social workers: they cannot officially refer you to specific recipients, but being professional, reliable, and easy to work with means your name comes up naturally when someone asks for help finding a provider.

Online Resources