IHSS Caregiver Support | Helpful Links and Services
This page brings together resources, links, and tools that can support IHSS caregivers, family members, and allies. From practical aids that make daily care easier to information that helps explain and navigate In-Home Supportive Services, I’ve gathered everything here in one place. I’ll keep adding and updating over time, so check back for new resources.
IHSS General Resources
- IHSS Program Overview – CDSS
Official program overview from the California Department of Social Services. - How to Become an IHSS Provider – CDSS
Step-by-step instructions from CDSS on applying to be an IHSS provider. - IHSS Provider & Recipient Resources – CDSS
State-provided resources for both IHSS providers and recipients. - IHSS Wages By County
Independent resource listing IHSS caregiver wages by county across California.
How to Apply
(Select Counties)
- Apply for IHSS – Santa Clara County
Application instructions and contact information for Santa Clara County IHSS. - IHSS Application Info – Sacramento County
County-specific information on applying for IHSS in Sacramento. - Apply for IHSS – Fresno County
Fresno County resources and details on IHSS application procedures. - Apply for IHSS – Kings County
Kings County Human Services Agency application details for IHSS. - Apply for IHSS – Solano County
Solano County’s IHSS application instructions and office contacts.
See the full list of county offices:
CDSS – County IHSS Offices
IHSS for Children
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IHSS for Children – CDSS
Official California Department of Social Services information on IHSS benefits for children with disabilities.
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IHSS Family Advocates
Advocacy site providing resources and guidance for families applying for or managing IHSS for children.
Tools & Portals
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Electronic Services Portal (ESP)
The official portal for IHSS caregivers to submit electronic timesheets and manage payments online.
Family Caregivers Info
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Service Animal Info
A clear guide listing emotional needs and DSM-5 disorders that may qualify for ESA support and aid.
Services by State
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Services by State
Find caregiver support, classes, and state-by-state services with CareNav’s resource finder online.
Unions for IHSS Caregivers
- SEIU Local 2015 – IHSS Caregiver Union
California’s largest long-term care worker union, representing over 400,000 caregivers. - SEIU United Healthcare Workers West (UHW)
A major union of healthcare workers in California, advocating for quality care and fair wages.
Mandated Reporter Info
- CA Mandated Reporter Guidelines – CDSS APS
Official state guidelines on mandated reporting for adult protective services. - IHSS Mandated Reporting PDF
A PDF overview of confidentiality and mandated reporting rules specific to IHSS caregivers.
Caregiver Wellbeing
- The Care Steward — about Burnout
Expert resources, trusted guides, and real human support to help families navigate care crises with clarity and confidence.
Share Your Resources!
As an IHSS caregiver, advocate, or supporter, you know how important clear information and resources are. The rules, policies, and funding behind In-Home Supportive Services can be complicated, and sharing knowledge is one of the best ways we can help one another. That’s why I’m reaching out to the wider caregiver community for input.
If you’ve found useful links, guides, or resources that shed light on IHSS—whether it’s about applying, navigating county negotiations, caregiver rights, or advocacy efforts—please share them here! Your contributions can help other caregivers, families, and allies better understand the system and push for the changes we all need.
