If you're applying for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) for your child in California, one of the key steps in the process is the home assessment. Many parents ask: “Does the social worker visit my home to assess my child’s needs?”
The answer is yes—a home visit is a required part of the IHSS assessment process. This visit is critical in determining whether your child qualifies for services and how many hours of care may be approved.
The IHSS program is designed to help individuals—adults or children—who are aged, blind, or disabled and need support with activities of daily living. For children, the evaluation focuses on how much assistance they need beyond what is typical for a child of the same age.
The social worker’s visit allows them to:
This is the social worker’s opportunity to gather detailed, first-hand information.
Here’s what typically happens during the assessment:
1. Interview with the Parent or Caregiver
The social worker will ask you about your child’s health, behavior, development, and daily needs. Be prepared to explain how much help your child requires for tasks such as:
2. Observation of the Child
In most cases, the social worker will want to see the child, though it may not be a formal examination. They may ask to observe how your child moves, communicates, or responds to instructions.
3. Review of Supporting Documents
Bring any medical records, IEPs, therapy reports, or other relevant documents to help demonstrate your child’s needs. This paperwork is especially important if your child doesn’t yet have a formal diagnosis.
4. Safety and Environment Check
The social worker may take note of the home’s safety conditions and how the environment impacts your child’s needs. For example, they may consider whether stairs, sharp corners, or unsecured doors present risks for a child who has mobility or behavioral challenges.
Yes, preparation is key. Here are some ways to get ready for the visit:
This is not the time to show how well you’ve learned to manage—it’s the time to show how serious and ongoing your child’s needs are.
After the home visit, the social worker will evaluate all the information and make a recommendation for:
You will receive a Notice of Action (NOA) in writing, stating the decision. If you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to appeal.
Yes, the social worker does visit your home as part of the IHSS application process. This is a vital step where your input and honesty can directly affect your child’s access to essential services. The better prepared you are to explain your child’s needs, the more likely it is that your child will receive the support they require.
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].