Hours and IHSS: How to Request More Support

If you’re caring for a child with special needs and receiving support through California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, you probably already know how important those hours can be. But what happens when your child’s condition changes and they need more care than before?

The good news is: you can absolutely request more IHSS hours. Here’s what you need to know about how to do it—and how to make sure your child gets the support they need.

When Can You Request a Reassessment?

You can request a reassessment at any time—you don’t need to wait for your annual review. Reasons you might request more hours include:

• Your child’s condition has worsened
• They’ve developed new medical or behavioral needs
• They were recently hospitalized
• You’ve received new medical diagnoses or updated documentation
• They’re transitioning into adolescence or adulthood and need more support

Even temporary changes (like recovery from surgery) may qualify for short-term hour increases.

How to Request More IHSS Hours

1. Call your county IHSS office
   Let them know your child’s needs have changed and that you're requesting a reassessment.
2. Submit updated documentation
   This could include:
   • Doctor’s notes or new diagnoses
   • Changes in IEPs or behavior plans
   • Reports from therapists or specialists
   • Incident reports from school
3. Prepare for a home visit
   A social worker will schedule a reassessment visit. Be ready to explain:
   • What daily activities your child now needs more help with
   • Any safety concerns or supervision requirements
   • Changes in routines, mobility, behavior, or medical care
4. Request protective supervision, if appropriate
   If your child is mentally impaired and requires 24/7 supervision to stay safe, ask the social worker to consider protective supervision hours during the reassessment.

Tips for a Strong Reassessment

• Be specific: Give detailed examples of what has changed and how it impacts your child’s daily life.
• Keep records: Log incidents, injuries, or behavioral outbursts that show increased need for support.
• Don’t minimize your child’s needs: This is the time to be honest about the challenges you face as a caregiver.
• Get support: If you're unsure what to say or what documentation to submit, consider working with an IHSS advocate.

What Happens Next?

After the home visit and review of your documents, the social worker will issue a Notice of Action (NOA) stating how many hours are approved. If the new hours don’t reflect your child’s needs, you have the right to appeal—and many parents do successfully.

The Bottom Line

As your child grows or their condition evolves, it’s common for care needs to increase. IHSS is designed to support families through those changes. You don’t have to settle for outdated care hours—you have the right to request more help when you need it.

If you have questions about reassessments or need support through the process, our team is here to help.

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].