California home care: complaints, help and paying for care
If something goes wrong
Talk to the agency first for everyday issues such as scheduling or a poor match. For concerns about safety, neglect or a licensing violation, CDSS directs families to the Community Care Licensing complaint hotline, which handles complaints about home care organizations, staff and caregivers.
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 911. Suspected abuse of an elder or dependent adult can also be reported to your county's Adult Protective Services.
Contacting the Home Care Services Branch
CDSS lists the Home Care Services Branch phone as (877) 424-5778 and email as HCSB@dss.ca.gov for questions about licensing and the aide registry. Check the CDSS page for current details.
Local help
- Area Agencies on Aging connect families to meals, transportation, caregiver support and information.
- Hospital discharge planners can help arrange care after a hospital stay.
- Care managers can assess needs and coordinate services for a fee.
Paying for care
Families often combine private payment, long-term care insurance and public programs. California's Medi-Cal and In-Home Supportive Services programs have their own eligibility rules, so contact the county or the program directly to ask what applies. Get any coverage answers in writing.
Keep records
Keep the care plan, invoices, visit notes and any complaint correspondence in one folder. Clear records help when needs change or a problem arises.