07 Apr In-Home Supportive Services: How to Access Care at Home Through Medicaid
April 7, 2026 ~ In-home supportive services (IHSS), sometimes called home help programs, are Medicaid programs that provide care in a person’s home.
Medicaid is funded by the federal government, but each state runs its own program. Because of this:
- Not every state offers IHSS
- Programs may have different names
- Eligibility rules and covered services can vary
To learn more about how Medicaid works, visit Triage Cancer’s Medicaid Resource Hub.
What Services Does IHSS Cover Through Medicaid?
IHSS can include a wide range of services, depending on a person’s needs.
Some people may need help with daily activities, such as:
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Companionship
Others may need more medical support. If prescribed by a doctor, services may include:
- Medication management
- Wound care
- Tube feeding
IHSS can also include short-term care after a medical event, such as:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Skilled nursing care
The goal of IHSS is to help people stay in their homes and maintain their independence.
Who Qualifies for IHSS?
To qualify for IHSS, you usually need to be enrolled in Medicaid. However, eligibility depends on your state and your level of need.
IHSS may be available through different types of Medicaid programs.
How to Access IHSS Through Medicaid Programs
IHSS may be available through:
Medicaid State Plan Home Care Services
States must provide some home health services through Medicaid. These may include:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, eating)
- Help with daily activities
Some states also offer additional options, such as:
Community First Choice (CFC)
Provides help with daily living activities like cooking, grooming, and household tasks.
1915(i) State Plan Programs
May cover services like:
- Personal care
- Respite care
- Skilled nursing
- Home modifications
These programs often serve specific groups, such as older adults or people with disabilities.
If you qualify, there is typically no waiting list for these state plan services.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers for In-Home Care
HCBS waivers provide in-home care for people who might otherwise need care in a nursing facility.
Services may include:
- Help with daily activities
- Medical equipment
- Transportation
- Adult day care
Unlike other Medicaid programs:
- You may need to meet stricter eligibility criteria
- There may be waiting lists
Can Family Members Be Paid Caregivers Under IHSS?
This varies by state.
Some states allow you to choose your caregiver, including certain family members. In those cases, Medicaid may pay that person for providing care.
However:
- Not all states allow family caregivers to be paid
- Rules differ depending on the relationship (e.g., parent, spouse)
To find your state’s Medicaid agency and contact information, visit Triage Cancer’s State Resources.
Important Things to Know
Medicaid programs can change over time. States may:
- Expand eligibility
- Reduce benefits
- Change who can be paid as a caregiver
For example, some states have proposed changes to caregiver payment policies, while others have expanded Medicaid access.
Staying informed can help you understand your options. You can also explore state-specific rules using Triage Cancer’s Charts of State Laws.
About Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit providing free education to people diagnosed with cancer, caregivers, and health care professionals on cancer-related legal and practical issues. Through events, materials, and resources, Triage Cancer is dedicated to helping people move beyond diagnosis.
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