Living Requirements for IHSS Parent Providers

June 27, 2025

If you're a parent of a child with special needs, you may already know that California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program can provide financial support for the care you give every day. But one question we hear often is:

“Do I have to live in the same house as my child to be paid as their IHSS provider?”

The answer is yes—with very few exceptions, California law requires that a parent must live in the same household as the child in order to receive IHSS payments for providing care.


Why Does Residency Matter?

IHSS is a program designed to help people remain safely in their own homes rather than being placed in institutional care. Because of that, the state requires that caregivers (especially parents of minor children) share the same residence as the recipient—so that care is truly in-home and consistently available.

If a parent lives outside the home—even temporarily—they are generally not eligible to receive IHSS compensation during that time.


What If the Parents Are Separated or Share Custody?

In joint custody or split-household situations, the rules become more nuanced. Here's how it usually works:

  • IHSS hours can only be authorized for the household where the child primarily resides.
  • Only one parent at a time can be approved as the IHSS provider.
  • If the custody arrangement changes, the case may need to be reassessed.

If both parents provide care in separate homes, the IHSS office will consider where the majority of care is being delivered and who the child lives with most of the time.


What If I’m a Non-Parent Caregiver?

The live-in requirement is mostly specific to parent-providers of minor children. Other caregivers—like grandparents, siblings, or professional aides—do not always need to live in the same household, depending on the circumstances and the county’s approval process.


What If I Move Out Temporarily?

Even temporary changes in residency can affect your status as a provider. For example:

  • Moving out during a custody dispute
  • Being hospitalized
  • Staying elsewhere for work or personal reasons

In these cases, you must notify your county IHSS office immediately. Continuing to receive payments while not living with your child could lead to overpayments or complications with your case.


How to Verify Residency

During your initial application and reassessments, the IHSS social worker may ask for:

  • Lease or mortgage documents
  • Utility bills
  • School enrollment records
  • Official identification showing your address

Being transparent and keeping your documentation up-to-date is key to maintaining eligibility.


Final Thoughts

Yes, you must live in the same home as your child to be paid as their IHSS provider in most cases. This ensures the program remains focused on supporting in-home care and providing consistent, round-the-clock support for children with special needs.

If your living situation is changing—or you’re unsure how your custody arrangement might affect your eligibility—it’s a good idea to consult with an IHSS advocate or attorney who understands the system and can help you navigate the rules.

Need help? In California, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides crucial financial help for families raising children with special needs. American Advocacy Group is on the front lines every day, making positive change happen for people diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, and a range of diagnoses across the continuum. As a leading advocate for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, and the premier provider of the support and services people want and need, we understand the system and know how to take action regarding your best interests.

CONTACT US FOR HELP. Dial (877) 762-0702 or email us at [email protected].

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