IHSS Hours Explained: Understanding Your Monthly Allocation
IHSS hours are determined through a comprehensive assessment of your care needs. The amount varies significantly based on individual circumstances, living situation, and level of disability.
Maximum Hours Available
- Maximum Monthly Hours: 283 hours (for severe impairment)
- Typical Range: 50-120 hours per month
- Average Recipient: Receives about 90 hours monthly
- Daily Maximum: Approximately 9.5 hours if receiving maximum
Factors Determining Your Hours
- Functional Index Score from assessment
- Living arrangement (alone vs. with others)
- Availability of other household members
- Medical documentation of needs
- Cognitive impairment level
- Need for protective supervision
Hourly Task Allocations (Examples)
- Housework: Up to 6 hours monthly
- Meal Prep/Cleanup: Varies by meals needed
- Shopping/Errands: Typically 2-4 hours monthly
- Personal Care: Based on daily needs
- Protective Supervision: Can be 24/7 if qualified
Living Situation Impact
- Living Alone: Generally receive more hours
- Living with Others: Hours may be reduced for shared tasks
- Spouse Present: Some tasks assumed to be shared
How to Request More Hours
- File an appeal if hours seem insufficient
- Provide additional medical documentation
- Request reassessment if condition worsens
- Keep detailed logs of actual care needs
Expert Tip:
- Document everything during your assessment—keep a diary of daily care needs for two weeks before your evaluation to show the social worker exactly what help you require.
Next Step
If your hours are insufficient, contact IHSS at 1-888-944-4477 to request a reassessment.
