What Happens If Your IHSS Timesheet Is Late or Rejected
A rejected or late IHSS timesheet can push your paycheck back by a full pay period — sometimes two. For providers who depend on every paycheck, this can create serious financial stress. Here is what you need to know to protect yourself.
Why Timesheets Get Rejected
Common causes of IHSS timesheet rejection:
Provider-side errors:- Hours exceed the recipient's authorized amount for the period
- Wrong service code used for a service
- Hours entered on a day that falls outside the pay period
- Mathematical errors in total hours
- Timesheet submitted after the deadline
- Recipient does not approve the timesheet in their ESP account by the deadline
- Recipient disputes the hours (says you did not work the time claimed)
- Internet connection problems during submission (timesheet appears submitted but was not saved)
- ESP system outages on deadline days
What Happens After a Rejection?
You will receive a notice in your ESP account (and usually by mail) explaining the reason for rejection. You then need to:
Late timesheets must typically be submitted within 60 days of the original pay period end date. After 60 days, you may need a waiver to claim back pay.
If the Recipient Did Not Approve
Call or visit the recipient and ask them to log into ESP and approve your timesheet. If the recipient cannot access ESP, remind them they can approve by phone using the TTS line at 1-833-342-5388.
If the recipient incorrectly disputes your hours, you have the right to submit a timesheet dispute through your county IHSS office.
How to Prevent Rejections
- Submit timesheets 2–3 days before the deadline (not on deadline day)
- Keep a personal written record of hours worked each day
- Confirm with the recipient that they have approved your timesheet after you submit
- Check your ESP account 24 hours after submission to verify "Approved" status
Need Help?
Call the IHSS ESP Help Desk at 1-866-376-7066 or your county IHSS payroll office for assistance with a rejected or late timesheet.