IHSS Phone Number for Encino/Los Angeles: Complete Guide to In-Home Supportive Services

Are you searching for the IHSS phone number in Encino or Los Angeles? Need help applying for In-Home Supportive Services for yourself or a loved one? This guide covers everything you need to know about IHSS: what it is, how to contact the right office, who qualifies, how to apply, and tips for smooth communication with the Los Angeles County IHSS office. Whether you’re starting your first application or following up on services, you’ll find all the answers here—plus key local resources and step-by-step instructions for families in Encino and the greater LA area.

What Is IHSS? A Lifeline for Seniors and People With Disabilities

The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program is California’s largest publicly funded home care program. IHSS enables low-income seniors and people with disabilities to remain safely at home, rather than in a nursing facility, by providing free or low-cost help with daily living activities. Covered services may include bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, housecleaning, laundry, medication reminders, accompaniment to appointments, and more.

For families in Encino and throughout Los Angeles, IHSS is a critical support—especially when hiring private caregivers or moving to assisted living is too expensive. Learn more about the types of support IHSS offers.

IHSS Phone Number for Encino and Los Angeles

To apply, ask questions, or follow up on your IHSS application in Encino or anywhere in Los Angeles County, contact the main IHSS Customer Service Center:

• IHSS Los Angeles County Phone Number:
  1-888-822-9622 (Toll-free)
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Website: dpss.lacounty.gov/en/senior-and-disabled/ihss.html

Tip: This main line connects you to the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) IHSS Customer Service Center, serving all of Los Angeles County—including Encino, Tarzana, Reseda, Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, and neighboring San Fernando Valley communities.

Who Should Call the IHSS Phone Number?

• Seniors or adults with disabilities who want to apply for IHSS
• Family members or advocates seeking information about eligibility, application status, or current benefits
• Existing IHSS recipients with questions about changes in care needs, reporting a hospitalization, or updating their provider information
• Current or prospective IHSS caregivers (including family or friends) who want to learn how to get paid through the program

If you’re not sure whether IHSS is the right program for your needs, you can also learn about IHSS services here before you call.

What Information Should You Have Ready When Calling IHSS?

Calling the IHSS phone number is the first step, but being prepared will help you get answers faster. Before you call, gather:

• Your full name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and Medi-Cal number (if you have one)
• Your current home address and contact phone number
• Brief description of your (or your loved one’s) daily care needs and limitations
• Any medical diagnoses or information about recent hospitalizations or disabilities
• Name and contact information for a doctor, social worker, or advocate if they are helping you

If you are already receiving IHSS and are calling about an existing case, have your IHSS case number or provider number ready for faster service.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for IHSS?

IHSS is designed to help people who would otherwise be at risk of placement in a nursing facility. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a California resident
• Live at home or in your own apartment (not in a hospital, nursing facility, or most assisted living settings)
• Have a medical need for assistance with daily activities (such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, walking, etc.)
• Be eligible for Medi-Cal (California Medicaid). Tip: If you are low-income and over 65 or have a disability, you likely qualify for Medi-Cal.

Not sure if you’re eligible? See our IHSS eligibility checklist or call the IHSS phone number above for a free screening.

How to Get Started With IHSS in Encino/Los Angeles

Applying for IHSS in Encino or anywhere in Los Angeles County is a multi-step process, but the journey always begins with the phone. Here’s how to get started:

1. Call the IHSS Phone Number: Dial 1-888-822-9622 to start a new application, request information, or schedule an in-person or phone interview.
2. Request an Application: The representative will send you the “IHSS Application” (SOC 295) and an “IHSS Health Care Certification” (SOC 873) for your doctor to complete.
3. Complete and Return Forms: Fill out the application and have your doctor or healthcare provider fill out the medical certification, confirming you need help with daily activities.
4. IHSS Home Assessment: After receiving your paperwork, a county social worker will call to schedule a home visit or assessment (sometimes via video call) to review your needs and living situation.
5. Eligibility Determination: The county evaluates your application, medical need, and Medi-Cal eligibility. If approved, they will determine the number of monthly hours for which you qualify.
6. Selecting a Caregiver: You can choose your own caregiver—often a family member or friend. The caregiver will need to enroll and pass background checks.
7. Start of Services: Once approved and a provider is in place, you begin receiving IHSS-funded personal care services at home!

Tips for Communicating With IHSS: How to Get the Best Results

• Call Early in the Day: The IHSS phone lines can be busy. Calling soon after they open at 8:00 am often means shorter wait times.
• Write Down Questions: Before calling, make a list of your key questions or concerns so nothing gets forgotten.
• Keep a Notebook: Record the date and time of your calls, the name of the representative, and a summary of what was discussed. This helps if you need to follow up.
• Be Patient but Persistent: If you are placed on hold, stay patient—or try again at a different time. If you don’t receive forms or a call back, follow up.
• Request a Callback: If you can’t wait on hold, ask for a callback. Some lines offer automated callback options.
• Ask for Translated Services: The Los Angeles County IHSS line offers assistance in many languages, including Spanish, Armenian, Russian, and Farsi.
• Advocate’s Tip: If your first attempt isn’t successful, call back or ask for a supervisor if your issue is urgent or complicated.

What to Do After You Apply: Following Up With IHSS

After you submit your IHSS application, it can take several weeks for processing, a home visit, and a final decision. Here’s how to follow up and make sure your case moves forward:

• If you haven’t heard from a social worker within 2 weeks, call the IHSS phone number to check your application status.
• After your home visit, ask for an estimated timeline for approval and start of services.
• If you’re denied, you have the right to appeal. The IHSS phone line can provide information on how to file an appeal or request a “fair hearing.”
• If you need help with paperwork or the appeals process, contact a local senior center or advocacy group such as All Seniors Foundation.

IHSS Resources for Encino and Los Angeles Residents

• IHSS Customer Service Center (LA County): 1-888-822-9622
• IHSS Website and Forms: https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/senior-and-disabled/ihss.html
• All Seniors Foundation (Encino): Free help with IHSS, Medi-Cal, and personal care services applications. Learn more here.
• Personal Care Services: Read about all available personal care services covered by IHSS and other options.
• DPSS District Offices Near Encino:
  • West Valley District Office (closest to Encino): 21415 Plummer Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311 | Phone: 818-718-5010
  • San Fernando District Office: 9188 Glenoaks Blvd., Sun Valley, CA 91352 | Phone: 818-504-0322

Frequently Asked Questions About IHSS in Encino/Los Angeles

What does IHSS cover?

IHSS pays for a wide range of personal care services, including bathing, dressing, grooming, meal prep, cleaning, laundry, and transportation to medical appointments. It may also pay for accompaniment, protective supervision, and paramedical services if needed.

Can family members get paid as IHSS caregivers?

Yes! In California, family members—including adult children, spouses, or friends—can be paid through IHSS to provide approved care, after completing orientation and passing a background check.

Do I need Medi-Cal to receive IHSS?

Yes, all IHSS recipients must qualify for Medi-Cal. If you are not enrolled, IHSS staff can help you apply as part of your intake process.

How long does it take to get approved for IHSS?

Approval time varies but is usually 1–3 months from application to the start of services. Delays are possible, so follow up by calling the IHSS phone number regularly.

Where can I get in-person help applying for IHSS near Encino?

Contact the West Valley District Office (see address above) or the All Seniors Foundation for step-by-step assistance with the application, gathering medical documents, and following up with the county.

Conclusion: IHSS Phone Number and Next Steps for Encino Seniors

The IHSS phone number for Encino and Los Angeles—1-888-822-9622—is your direct line to vital home care assistance. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, understanding the IHSS process, eligibility, and best ways to communicate will help you secure the care you need to stay independent at home.

If you have questions or want free, personalized guidance, contact All Seniors Foundation or your nearest DPSS district office today. You’re not alone—help is just a phone call away!