Caregiving Information Center
This guide helps ICMS case managers determine whether a participant can benefit from In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) or In-Home Caregiving (IHCG) and how to apply for these programs in Los Angeles County.
Use the tabs below to compare programs, review eligibility, follow the application process, and find support resources.
Pathways to Caregiving Support
Two programs provide in-home caregiving support for participants in LA County. Understanding the differences helps case managers choose the right pathway and submit the correct application.
Note: The IHCG application requires an active IHSS application and case number. Always submit the IHSS application first before submitting the IHCG application.
IHSS — In-Home Supportive Services
Administered by: DPSS
A California caregiving program that funds in-home ADL and/or iADL support for low-income elderly, blind, or disabled people.
- Eligibility: Must meet DPSS eligibility requirements
- Application: IHSS Application and Health Care Certification upon request
- Processing time: DPSS processes within 45 days of application
- Provider: IHSS caregiver identified and hired by the participant
- Redetermination: Annual IHSS redetermination required
IHCG — In-Home Caregiving
Administered by: HFH
A caregiving bridge program in LA County providing in-home ADL and/or iADL support for participants living with co-occurring conditions who are at risk of homelessness or staying in a transitional shelter.
- Eligibility: IHSS application and case number required
- Application: IHCG Application submitted through ICMS
- Processing time: IHCG processes within 10 business days
- Provider: HFH coordinates caregiver placement
- Transition: Notify HFH when IHSS is approved so IHCG resources can go to other participants
Key Differences at a Glance
- IHSS is a permanent state-funded program — IHCG is a bridge program while IHSS is being processed
- IHCG requires an active IHSS application — submit IHSS first
- ICMS is the only point of contact to inform HFH about IHSS approvals
- When IHSS is approved and a caregiver is hired, notify HFH immediately to end IHCG participation so limited resources can go to other participants
Adding a Caregiver to the Care Team
Follow the steps below to connect a participant to IHSS and/or IHCG caregiving support. The process involves conducting assessments, submitting applications, coordinating in-person evaluations, and integrating the caregiver into the Care Plan.
Step 1: Conduct ICMS Assessments
Use the Housing Acuity Index and/or 5×5 assessments to evaluate potential caregiving needs and determine whether the participant may benefit from IHSS or IHCG.
Step 2: Submit IHSS Application
Complete and submit the IHSS Application and Health Care Certification upon request. This step is required before submitting the IHCG application.
Step 3: Submit IHCG Application (if needed)
Complete and submit the IHCG Application. The IHSS application and case number are required before IHCG can be processed.
Step 4: Coordinate ADL and iADL Assessments
Arrange and be present during both the IHCG Needs Assessment by an HFH clinician and the IHSS Needs Assessment by a DPSS clinician. These determine the caregiving hours allotment.
Step 5: Initiate IHCG or Hire IHSS Caregiver
For IHCG: Coordinate a meet and greet between you, the participant, and the caregiver. Purchase caregiving supplies with participant assistance funds. Help establish a caregiving schedule.
For IHSS: Help identify and hire a caregiver. Coordinate a meet and greet and establish a schedule.
Step 6: Collaborate and Integrate
Work with the participant to set Care Plan action steps that integrate ICMS and caregiving to provide the most meaningful care experience. For IHSS: support annual redetermination to maintain ongoing access.
If IHSS Is Denied
- Email the denial notification, encrypted, as soon as possible to: HFHIn-homecaregiving@dhs.lacounty.gov
- Explore IHCG extension as advised by HFH
- Appeal or re-apply as advised by HFH
Application Process Flow Diagram
Replace the placeholder below with the caregiving application process flowchart image asset.
Ways a Caregiver Can Add Value to the Care Team
Caregivers support participants with a wide range of daily living activities. Use this list to help participants and care teams understand the scope of caregiving services and identify what support is most relevant.
Personal Care and Daily Living (ADLs)
- Bathing
- Grooming
- Dressing
- Continence care
- Medication reminders
- Hospice care
Household Support (iADLs)
- Housekeeping and tidying
- Sweeping and dishwashing
- Laundry
- Meal preparation and cooking
- Prescription pickup
- Transportation and errands
Social and Emotional Support
- Companionship
- Conversation
- Accompaniment to appointments
Care Coordination Support
- Help establish and maintain a caregiving schedule
- Assist with monitoring medication adherence
- Support continuity between ICMS visits
Support and Resources
Use the resources below for additional guidance on IHSS, IHCG, caregiving questions, and training opportunities.
Caregiving Tip Sheet
Access the full caregiving cheat sheet for case managers, including the IHSS and IHCG comparison, application steps, and caregiver value-add services.
IHSS Program Training
Watch the IHSS Program Overview training series and register for the Journey from IHCG to IHSS Training Session to deepen your understanding of both programs.