IHSS Workers' Compensation in California: Your Rights After an On-the-Job Injury
IHSS providers are covered by California workers' compensation insurance when they are injured on the job. This includes injuries that happen while providing care, traveling between recipients, or performing any IHSS-authorized task.
Are IHSS Providers Covered by Workers' Comp?
Yes. California IHSS providers are covered through state-administered workers' compensation. You do not need to purchase your own policy. The program is funded through the IHSS program, not by the recipient.
What Injuries Are Covered?
Workers' compensation covers injuries that happen in the course and scope of employment — meaning while you are performing your IHSS duties. Common IHSS-related injuries include:
- Back injuries from lifting or transferring a recipient
- Slip and fall injuries in the recipient's home
- Repetitive strain injuries from daily care tasks
- Injuries from assaults by a recipient with behavioral issues
- Exposure injuries (skin conditions, respiratory issues from cleaning products)
- Vehicle accidents while traveling between IHSS recipients on the same workday
What to Do If You Are Injured
What Workers' Comp Covers
- Medical treatment — doctor visits, hospital care, physical therapy, prescriptions
- Temporary disability payments — if you cannot work while recovering (typically 2/3 of your wages)
- Permanent disability payments — if the injury causes lasting impairment
- Vocational rehabilitation — if you cannot return to the same work
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
You can appeal a denied workers' comp claim through the California Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). You have the right to an attorney — many workers' comp attorneys work on contingency (no upfront cost).
Resources:- California Division of Workers' Compensation: 1-800-736-7401 | dir.ca.gov/DWC
- Workers' Comp Hotline: 1-800-763-0243
- SEIU 2015 Member Support: 1-866-756-1021