If you’re a parent of a child with autism, you know how overwhelming it can be to manage their daily care needs. From doctor appointments and perhaps ABA therapy sessions to providing constant support at home, it can feel like a full-time job. 

Fortunately, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program in California offers a way to get financial and practical support for the care of your autistic child. If you're wondering how to navigate the IHSS approval process, you're in the right place!

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for IHSS for your autistic child and how to increase your chances of approval. Let's dive in!

What is IHSS and How Does it Help?

IHSS is a California Medicaid program designed to provide support to individuals who need assistance with daily tasks due to disabilities, including children with autism. IHSS helps pay for services such as:

• Personal care assistance (help with bathing, dressing, grooming)

• Housekeeping (cleaning, laundry)

• Meal preparation

• Supervision for safety (especially for children with behavioral concerns)

The goal of IHSS is to help children remain in their homes and avoid being placed in institutional care.

Step 1: Ensure Your Child is Eligible for Medi-Cal

Before you can apply for IHSS, your child must be enrolled in Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program. Medi-Cal is required because IHSS is a benefit under Medi-Cal. If your child isn’t already enrolled, the first step is to apply for Medi-Cal. You can apply online or visit your local county office to get started.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

The IHSS application process requires various documents to prove your child's eligibility and the level of care they need. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Health Care Certification (SOC 873): This is a form completed by your child’s doctor to verify their diagnosis and need for assistance. The form helps to clarify how autism impacts your child’s daily life and the services they require.

• Medical Records & Evaluations: Submit any available medical records that document your child's autism diagnosis and health condition. If your child has an Individualized Education Program or has participated in autism therapy programs, include those as well.

• Individualized Education Program (IEP): If your child is in school, the IEP can provide valuable information about their educational needs and the level of support they require. This is especially useful if your child needs help in the school setting as well.

Having these documents ready will make the application process smoother and more efficient.

Step 3: Complete the IHSS Application

Now that you have all the necessary documents, it’s time to fill out the IHSS application. You can request the application from your local IHSS office or apply online through the California Department of Social Services website.

As you fill out the application, be as thorough as possible. Provide detailed information about your child’s daily routine, their behavioral challenges, and the assistance they require. The more comprehensive and specific you can be, the better.

Step 4: Schedule and Prepare for the Home Assessment

Once your application is submitted, the county will schedule a home assessment. This visit is an essential part of the process. A social worker will come to your home to evaluate the level of care your child needs. During the visit, they’ll observe your child’s behavior, assess their safety needs, and determine how much assistance is required.

Tips for the Home Assessment:

• Be prepared to explain how autism impacts your child’s daily life.

• Keep a log or journal of your child’s needs, behaviors, and any incidents that demonstrate the level of supervision they need.

• Show examples of the support they require, whether it's help with feeding, dressing, or ensuring they are safe from wandering.

If your child needs protective supervision due to behaviors that put them at risk, like eloping or engaging in self-injurious behavior, make sure to document these behaviors clearly. Protective supervision can help increase the number of IHSS hours you may be granted.

Step 5: Review the IHSS Approval or Denial Notice

After the assessment, you will receive a notice from the county detailing whether your child has been approved for IHSS and how many hours of assistance they qualify for. If your child is approved, the notice will outline the services they’ll receive.

What if Your Child is Denied IHSS?

If your application is denied, don’t worry—you have the right to appeal the decision. The notice will explain why your child was denied and provide instructions on how to file an appeal. Many parents are successful in getting a denial overturned after an appeal, especially if additional documentation can be provided.

Step 6: Find a Care Provider

Once approved for IHSS, you can either provide care yourself or hire a caregiver to assist your child. If a family member, including yourself, is going to be the caregiver, you’ll need to enroll as an IHSS provider. This involves passing a criminal background check and meeting other provider requirements.

Additional Tips for the IHSS Application Process

• Keep Detailed Records: Throughout the process, keep a record of all forms submitted, phone calls made, and any correspondence from the IHSS office. This can help you track the progress of your application and ensure there are no delays.

• Protective Supervision: If your child requires constant supervision to ensure their safety, this can significantly impact the number of IHSS hours they receive. Be sure to document any situations where your child requires continuous oversight.

• Be Persistent: The IHSS process can sometimes be lengthy, but don’t get discouraged. If necessary, don’t hesitate to reach out to local advocacy organizations or legal services to help you navigate the process.

The IHSS program can provide crucial support to families with autistic children, helping ensure they receive the care they need while staying in a comfortable and familiar environment. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well on your way to getting the help your child deserves.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need additional assistance, there are numerous local support groups and advocacy organizations in California that specialize in helping families with autism navigate the IHSS process.

You’ve got this, and your child’s well-being is worth the effort!

FAQs

What documents do I need to get IHSS for my autistic child?

You’ll need a Health Care Certification, medical records, an IEP (if applicable), and detailed notes on your child’s daily care needs.

How long does the IHSS approval process take for autistic children?

The timeline varies, but after submitting your application, expect a home assessment within a few weeks and a final decision shortly after.

Can I get paid through IHSS to care for my autistic child?

Yes! Once approved, parents or relatives can become IHSS providers and receive payment for caregiving services under certain conditions.

Sources:

• https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/resources/in-home-supportive-services-ihss

• https://www.medicaidplanningassistance.org/medi-cal-in-home-supportive-services/

• https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/senior-and-disabled/ihss.html

• https://ca.db101.org/ca/programs/health_coverage/medi_cal/ihss/program2.htm

• https://ehsd.org/elderly-disabled/in-home-supportive-services-ihss/

• https://www.countyofsb.org/3606/In-Home-Supportive-Services-IHSS