🔹 Policy and Legislative Updates

IHSS for All Preserved

✔️ The Governor's Budget maintains IHSS eligibility for undocumented residents and increases funding to $10.6 billion.
✔️ This decision ensures that more individuals in need can continue receiving care regardless of their immigration status.
✔️ Lawmakers emphasized that home care is an essential service for vulnerable populations.
✔️ Advocates are urging providers to stay informed and participate in upcoming public hearings regarding future expansions.

New Bills Proposed

✔️ AB 346 aims to simplify medical certification for IHSS services, potentially reducing delays in service approvals.
✔️ AB 1161 proposes automatic eligibility extensions during emergencies, helping prevent disruptions in care during natural disasters or statewide emergencies.
✔️ These bills are currently in committee, and public input may influence final decisions.

Overtime & Workweek Rules Unchanged

✔️ The 66-hour/week cap for multi-client providers remains in effect.
✔️ Providers should continue tracking hours carefully to avoid exceeding maximum limits and potential penalties.
✔️ Labor organizations continue advocating for flexibility in cases of emergency or caregiver shortages.

📌 More details: CDSS IHSS Updates

💰 Wage and Benefits Information

State Minimum Wage Increase

✔️ Effective January 1, 2025, California's minimum wage increased to $16.50 per hour for all employers.
✔️ However, many cities and counties have established higher local minimum wages to address varying costs of living.
✔️ Employers must comply with the highest applicable minimum wage rate in their area.

Local Wage Increases for IHSS Providers

Several counties implemented wage increases for IHSS providers as of January 1, 2025:

• Alameda County: $20.00 per hour

• Los Angeles County: $18.50 per hour

• San Francisco County: $22.00 per hour

• Santa Clara County: $19.00 per hour

• San Mateo County: $18.75 per hour

✔️ These increases reflect ongoing efforts by caregivers and unions to secure livable wages.
✔️ With rising inflation, these wage adjustments help IHSS providers afford essentials like rent, groceries, and transportation.
✔️ If you're in a county where negotiations are ongoing, consider engaging in advocacy efforts to support fair pay for home care workers.

Health & Training Benefits

✔️ Some counties are expanding health coverage, PPE access, and paid training opportunities.
✔️ For example, Ventura County has doubled its training fund to support providers who wish to advance their skills.
✔️ Several counties provide reimbursement for personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring caregivers have access to gloves, masks, and hand sanitizer.
✔️ If you are unsure whether your county offers these benefits, contact your IHSS Public Authority for more information.

📌 Check your county’s rate: IHSS County Wage Info

💵 Tax Credits and Financial Assistance

Claim Your Refunds!

• California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC):
  ✔️ Up to $3,417 for low-income workers.
  ✔️ Many caregivers qualify even if they don’t owe federal taxes.
  ✔️ Filing a tax return is necessary to claim the credit, and past years can be amended if missed.
  
  

• Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):
  ✔️ Additional refunds based on income and number of children.
  ✔️ Single caregivers earning less than $59,187 may be eligible, with the amount increasing for those with dependents.
  
  

• Child Tax Credit (CTC):
  ✔️ Up to $2,000 per child (refundable up to $1,600).
  ✔️ Families with young children may also qualify for California’s Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) for additional financial assistance.
  
  

IHSS Live-In Providers

✔️ Wages may be tax-free but still count for EITC eligibility.
✔️ Providers who live with their care recipients can exclude IHSS income from federal taxes while still benefiting from tax credits.
✔️ This means they may qualify for both the EITC and state stimulus checks.
✔️ Ensure that you complete the necessary IRS forms to document your earnings correctly.

File for Missed Stimulus Payments

✔️ If you didn’t receive your COVID-19 stimulus checks, you can still file an amended return.
✔️ The IRS allows corrections for up to three years, meaning those who missed payments in 2020 or 2021 may still be eligible.
✔️ Consult a tax professional to maximize your refund.

Free Tax Filing with FreeTaxUSA

✔️ FreeTaxUSA offers free federal tax filing for all taxpayers, regardless of income level.
✔️ State returns are available for a small fee.
✔️ The platform supports all major tax forms, including those for self-employed individuals.
✔️ It’s a cost-effective way to file your taxes accurately and efficiently.

📌 Get free tax help: United Way VITA Program

🚨 Health and Safety Alerts

Measles Outbreak in California

✔️ Over 222 cases have been reported.
✔️ Health officials urge caregivers to check their vaccination status and stay updated on immunization guidelines.
✔️ Measles spreads easily, and those who work with vulnerable populations should take extra precautions.
✔️ Free vaccinations are available at county health clinics.

📌 More details: California Department of Public Health

💡 Stay Connected & Take Action!

✔️ Join advocacy efforts to support higher wages, expanded benefits, and better working conditions for IHSS providers.
✔️ Check your county’s Public Authority website for training, PPE reimbursements, and additional benefits.
✔️ Follow us for weekly updates, alerts, and important provider information!

📌 IHSS Provider Resources: CDSS IHSS Homepage

📢 Know an IHSS provider who needs this info? Share this update with them!

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