Just realized I can get paid for taking care of my mom through IHSS

I was talking to my neighbor last week in Fresno and she mentioned she gets paid through In-Home Supportive Services to help her dad. I had no idea this was a thing in California. I've been helping my mom with her doctor visits and meds for free for like 2 years now. So I applied online and got approved for 40 hours a week at $16 an hour. Has anyone else gone through the IHSS process and have any tips for tracking hours?

2 comments

Log in to join the discussion

Log In

2 Comments

tylermurray1mo ago

Yeah I had a similar surprise with IHSS but for a different reason. When I first started getting paid for helping my mom in Sacramento, I didn't realize you have to report if you live in the same house and pay rent. Turns out there's a whole form about living arrangements and if you're considered a 'spouse' or 'parent' provider vs a regular one. I got a letter 6 months in saying I had to pay back $800 because I marked the wrong box on my application. Had to call the county three times before someone explained it. I use a little notebook now where I write down the time I start and stop each day, and I double check it against the timesheet website every week.

8

paule532mo ago

Have you looked into the tax situation with that income? I'm just asking because a lot of folks don't realize IHSS payments count as taxable income, and it can mess up your return if you're not careful. I've known a few people who got surprised at tax time when they had to pay back some of what they earned. For tracking hours, I'd recommend using a simple paper log or a basic app on your phone, just to keep a clear record in case they audit you down the road.

5