In-Home Supportive Services Residual Program

Many older adults and people with disabilities want to continue living safely at home but need extra help with everyday activities. The California In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Residual Program may provide in-home care for people who aren’t eligible for Medi-Cal but still need assistance to remain independent.

What is the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Residual Program?

The Residual Program is part of California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). Most people receive IHSS through Medi-Cal. The Residual Program is designed for a smaller group of people who meet certain income and eligibility requirements but don't qualify for Medi-Cal. If you qualify, you'll receive services from a caregiver to help you stay safe and independent in your own home instead of moving to a nursing home or other care facility.

You can choose a friend or family member to provide your care. You can also choose a caregiver through your county's IHSS Public Authority Caregiver Registry. Before services can begin, your caregiver must complete the required enrollment process.

Depending on your needs, services may include help with:

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House cleaning

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Meal preparation

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Laundry

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Grocery shopping

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Bathing

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Grooming

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Dressing

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Taking medications

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Going to medical appointments

If you qualify, you may also receive an advance payment or a restaurant meal allowance, depending on your situation.

Am I eligible for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Residual Program?

You must meet certain requirements to qualify for the IHSS Residual Program. You may be eligible if you:

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Are not eligible for Medi-Cal

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Meet SSI income limits

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Are age 65 or above, or have a disability

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Have a medical need for in-home care services

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Live in California

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Live in your own home (people living in acute care hospitals, nursing homes, or licensed community care facilities are not eligible)

How do I apply?

To apply for the IHSS Residual Program, you must contact the IHSS office in your county and submit the In-Home Supportive Services application. Before you apply, gather documents that may be needed with your application, such as:

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Proof of income

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Your Social Security card

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Your Medicare card, if applicatable

After you apply, a county social worker will schedule an in-home assessment to learn about your daily care needs. The assessment helps determine whether you qualify for services and how much assistance you need to continue living safely at home.

What if I need help?

If you have questions about the IHSS Residual Program or need help applying, support is available.

You can:

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Contact your county’s IHSS office to learn if you may qualify, get help with the application process, and ask questions about available services.

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Contact the California Department of Social Services for additional information about the program. You can call (916) 651-8848 or email piar@dss.ca.gov.