Can Both Parents Split IHSS Provider Hours?

Understanding Your Options as Parents of an IHSS Recipient

If you’re a parent caring for a child with disabilities through California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, you may have wondered: Can both parents be paid IHSS providers and split the authorized hours?

The answer is yes — but with some important conditions and limitations.

How IHSS Hours Work for Families

When your child is approved for IHSS, the county assigns a specific number of authorized hours per month based on their needs — this could include personal care, protective supervision, paramedical tasks, and other supports.

These hours are then assigned to one or more providers. For most families, one parent becomes the provider. But in households where both parents share caregiving, splitting hours might make sense — especially if:

• One parent has a part-time job.
• The child requires care at all hours, and both parents help cover it.
• You want to reduce the burden on one parent by sharing the role.

Can Both Parents Be Providers? Yes — With These Conditions:

IHSS does allow both parents of a minor child to be enrolled providers and share the authorized hours, as long as they meet the following requirements:

1. Both Parents Must Be Enrolled as IHSS Providers

Each parent must:

• Complete provider orientation
• Pass a criminal background check
• Submit required forms (SOC 426, W-4, etc.)

2. Only the Total Authorized Hours Can Be Paid

The combined hours you both work cannot exceed the monthly authorized total. For example:

• If your child is approved for 200 hours/month
• Parent A could claim 100 hours
• Parent B could claim the other 100
• But not 200 each

There is no “bonus” or doubling of hours for having two providers — you’re just splitting the workload.

3. Each Parent Must Submit Separate Timesheets

IHSS uses an Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) system, and both parents must:

• Clock in/out for their own hours
• Submit separate timesheets
• Ensure there is no overlap (i.e., both claiming the same time)

Important Things to Keep in Mind

• If you're married and living together, you can split hours without any additional approvals.
• If you're divorced or separated, things get more complex. IHSS typically only allows the parent who lives full-time with the child to be paid — unless the other parent qualifies under a special exemption (e.g., custodial parent is working or unable to provide care).
• The county social worker may ask how the care is being divided, especially if your child’s care plan is intensive or includes Protective Supervision.

Tips for Parents Who Want to Split Hours

• Be clear and organized about your caregiving schedule — who handles what and when.
• Keep a shared calendar or log so there’s no confusion when reporting hours.
• If one parent works outside the home, the second provider role can offer flexibility and financial relief while ensuring your child’s needs are fully met.

Bottom Line

Yes, both parents can split IHSS provider hours — as long as:

• You’re both enrolled as providers
• You don’t exceed the total authorized hours
• You follow proper timesheet procedures

For many families, this can be a great way to share caregiving duties and reduce stress while still receiving financial support through IHSS.

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].