Can IHSS caregivers qualify for EDD unemployment benefits after client passes away?

Yes, IHSS providers CAN qualify for unemployment benefits! I went through this exact situation last year when my client moved to a nursing facility. Since IHSS caregivers have payroll taxes withheld (including unemployment insurance), you're generally eligible if you meet the other standard requirements. You'll need your last IHSS pay stub, your provider number, and possibly the termination notice from the county. When you file, make sure to list your employer as the "State of California - IHSS" not your relative. Some EDD reps get confused about IHSS employment.

sry bout ur grandma :( my cousin did ihss n got unemployment after her client went 2 hospital. she said make sure u say ur employed by the STATE not by the person u cared for. good luck!

I tried getting UI after my IHSS client passed and got DENIED initially!! EDD said I was self-employed (WRONG) and didn't qualify. Had to appeal and send in tons of paperwork proving I was actually employed by the State through IHSS program. Eventually got approved but took MONTHS. KEEP ALL YOUR PAYSTUBS and timesheets!!! You might need to prove your employment history.

IHSS providers are considered employees of the state for unemployment insurance purposes. You qualify for UI benefits if: 1. You earned enough wages during your base period 2. You're able and available for work 3. You're actively seeking employment 4. Your job loss wasn't your fault When filing, use "State of California - IHSS" as your employer with the address of your county IHSS office. Have your provider number, SSN, and all pay documentation ready. If you get stuck in pending status (common for IHSS providers due to employer verification issues), be prepared to follow up. If you're having trouble reaching EDD to resolve issues, I'd recommend trying Claimyr (claimyr.com). They helped me get through to an actual EDD rep when my claim was stuck in verification. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km

My aunt does IHSS and said something about needing enough "quarters" of work to qualify. Its not just about if you were an employee, but if you earned enough money during the "base period" which is like a year before you apply. If you only worked part-time for IHSS you might not have enough earnings to qualify even if you are technically eligible as an employee type.

When I lost my IHSS client, it took me 11 WEEKS to actually get my first payment!!! The system is BROKEN for IHSS workers!! Called EDD literally 37 times before getting through. Had to contact my Assembly member's office to get help. They kept saying my employer wasn't responding to verification (duh, because it's a system not a person). If I could do it again, I would've demanded the IHSS office give me a specific contact person at the state level who handles UI verification.

To answer your follow-up question - yes, there are some things you can do proactively: 1. Contact your county IHSS office NOW and request a letter confirming your employment dates and that services ended due to client death (not your fault) 2. When filing, be very clear that you were a W2 employee of "State of California - IHSS" (some IHSS workers are under Public Authorities in certain counties - check your paystub) 3. Call EDD after filing to confirm they've properly classified you (don't wait for problems) 4. If you get stuck in pending, remember you can request a determination interview to speak directly with a claim specialist The key issue most IHSS workers face is the employer verification step, since there's no traditional HR department to respond to EDD inquiries.

Just wanted to add - if your IHSS hours were for caring for a family member, EDD might question if you were truly "available for work" during that time (a requirement for benefits). Be prepared to explain how you were able to work those hours while being available for other employment. This comes up more often with family caregivers than with IHSS workers caring for non-relatives.

I'm so sorry for your loss, Oliver. Losing your grandmother and facing financial uncertainty at the same time must be incredibly overwhelming. From everyone's responses here, it's crystal clear that you absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits as an IHSS provider - you've been paying into the system for 2.5 years, so these benefits are yours by right. What strikes me most from reading all these experiences is how common the initial confusion is with EDD reps who aren't familiar with IHSS employment. Don't let that discourage you - you ARE an employee of the State of California through the IHSS program, not self-employed or an independent contractor. One thing I'd add to all the excellent advice here: when you file your claim, you might also want to have your Social Security statement handy (you can get it online at ssa.gov) to verify your earnings history if EDD has any questions. Since IHSS wages are reported to Social Security, this can serve as additional proof of your employment status. The fact that you worked consistent hours over 2.5 years and had taxes withheld puts you in a strong position. Yes, the system has quirks for IHSS workers, but you have every right to these benefits. Stay persistent, document everything, and don't hesitate to escalate if you hit roadblocks. Wishing you strength during this difficult transition. Please keep us posted on how it goes - your experience could really help other IHSS caregivers facing similar situations.