IHSS in Alameda County

Overview

Alameda County's IHSS program is administered by the Social Services Agency, with provider registry, health benefits, and training handled by the Alameda County Public Authority for IHSS — operating since 1993.

Alameda's $21.60/hr wage reflects a $1.60 negotiated increase for 2026, putting it among the higher county rates in the state — consistent with the broader Bay Area wage pattern affecting San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara as well.

Provider Wage & Public Authority

Wages are renegotiated roughly twice a year. Confirm your current rate directly with ACPA before relying on this figure.

Local Notes & Quirks

• One of the longest-running Public Authorities in CA: Alameda's Public Authority for IHSS has operated since 1993, among the earliest in the state.
• Low-cost provider health plan: Eligible IHSS providers in Alameda County can access a low-cost medical, dental, and vision plan administered directly through the Public Authority.
• Backup Provider System (BUPS): Recipients who urgently need a temporary caregiver — when their regular provider is unavailable — can request a backup provider through the Public Authority rather than going without care.

Appealing a Notice of Action in Alameda County

If Alameda County reduces, denies, or terminates your IHSS hours, the appeal process is governed by state regulation — the same 90-day deadline applies regardless of county:

• You have 90 days from the date on your Notice of Action to request a State Hearing
• Call the State Hearings Division at 1-800-952-5253 to request a hearing
• Or mail a written request to: California Department of Social Services, State Hearings Division, P.O. Box 944243, Sacramento, CA 94244
• Requesting your hearing before the Notice of Action's effective date preserves Aid Paid Pending — meaning you keep your current hours while the appeal is decided

For free legal help with an Alameda County IHSS appeal, Disability Rights California can be reached at 1-800-776-5746.