If you or a loved one in Imperial County needs help with daily living tasks due to age, disability, or medical conditions, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program may be the solution. This guide explains what IHSS is, who qualifies, and how to become or apply for a caregiver in Imperial County.
What Is IHSS?
IHSS is a California state program that provides non-medical in-home care to eligible individuals who are aged (65+), blind, or disabled. The goal is to help people live safely in their own homes rather than in institutional settings.
Services may include:
- Bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
- Meal preparation and feeding
- Housecleaning and laundry
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Protective supervision for cognitive impairments [canhr.org]
Who Qualifies for IHSS in Imperial County?
To be eligible for IHSS in Imperial County, you must:
- Be a resident of Imperial County and California
- Be 65 or older, blind, or disabled
- Be Medi-Cal eligible
- Live in your own home (not a care facility)
- Require assistance with daily living tasks
- Submit a Health Care Certification (SOC 873) completed by a licensed medical provider
📄 Download SOC 873 – Health Care Certification Form (PDF) [cdss.ca.gov]
How to Become an IHSS Caregiver in Imperial County
You can become a caregiver for a family member, friend, or someone in your community through the IHSS program. Here’s how:
Steps to Enroll:
Contact the Imperial County IHSS Public Authority
- 📞 Call: (760) 337-3084
- 📍 Visit: 2995 S 4th St, Suite 105, El Centro, CA 92243
- 🌐 Imperial County IHSS Public Authority Website [cdss.ca.gov]
Attend a Mandatory Orientation
Learn about your responsibilities, payroll, and how to submit timesheets.Complete Enrollment Forms
- 📄 SOC 426 – Provider Enrollment Form (PDF) [cdss.ca.gov]
- 📄 SOC 846 – Provider Enrollment Agreement (PDF)
Bring a valid photo ID and Social Security card. [cdss.ca.gov]
Fingerprinting & Background Check
Schedule a Live Scan appointment. Background checks are required by the California Department of Justice.
How to Apply for IHSS Services in Imperial County
If you or someone you care for needs IHSS services, follow these steps:
Apply for Medi-Cal
IHSS is only available to Medi-Cal recipients. If you’re not enrolled, contact the Imperial County Department of Social Services at (760) 337-6800 or visit imperialcountysocialservices.org. [dpss.lacounty.gov]Submit an IHSS Application
- 📄 SOC 295 – Application for IHSS (PDF)
You can apply by phone, in person, or online. A social worker will schedule a home visit to assess your needs. [cdss.ca.gov]
- 📄 SOC 295 – Application for IHSS (PDF)
Provide Health Care Certification
Your doctor must complete the SOC 873 form to verify your need for IHSS.Receive Approval & Hire a Caregiver
Once approved, you can hire a caregiver—this can be a family member, friend, or someone from the IHSS registry.
Local ISHH Support & Contact Info
Imperial County IHSS Public Authority
📍 Address: 2995 S 4th St, Suite 105, El Centro, CA 92243
📞 Phone: (760) 337-3084
🕒 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed 12–1 PM for lunch)
🌐 Visit Website [cdss.ca.gov]
Need Help Applying for IHSS in Imperial County?
At Access Point 360°, we provide System Navigation Services to help individuals and families overcome barriers and access the resources they need to thrive.