If you or a loved one needs in-home care but can’t afford private services, Colorado’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program may be the solution. This Medicaid waiver program helps seniors and individuals with disabilities receive personal care, homemaker services, and skilled nursing at home—often at little to no cost.

At ATN Healthcare, we help Colorado families navigate IHSS eligibility and applications every day. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

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What Is IHSS in Colorado?

IHSS is a Medicaid-funded program (part of Colorado’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers) that provides:
✅ Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, toileting)
✅ Homemaker services (meal prep, light cleaning)
✅ Respite care for family caregivers
✅ Skilled nursing (medication management, wound care)

Note: IHSS is sometimes called “Consumer-Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS)” in Colorado.

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Step 1: Check IHSS Eligibility in Colorado

To qualify, you must meet all of these requirements:

1. Financial Eligibility

• Income Limits:
  • Single applicant: ≤ $2,829/month (2024)
  • Couples: ≤ $5,658/month
• Asset Limits:
  • Single applicant: ≤ $2,000 in countable assets
  • Couples: ≤ $3,000

Tip: Your home and car usually don’t count toward assets.

2. Medical Eligibility

• Be 65+ years old, blind, or disabled (as defined by Social Security)
• Require help with ≥ 2 Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, eating, or mobility
• Be at risk of nursing home placement without IHSS services

3. Residency & Citizenship

• Be a Colorado resident
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency

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Step 2: Apply for IHSS in Colorado

Option A: Online Application

1. Visit Colorado’s PEAK Medicaid portal: www.colorado.gov/PEAK
2. Create an account and complete the HCBS Application
3. Upload supporting documents (ID, proof of income, medical records)

Option B: Paper Application

1. Download the IHSS Application Form (English/Spanish):
   • Colorado IHSS Application PDF
2. Mail or fax to your local Single Entry Point (SEP) agency (see list below)

Option C: Get Help Applying

• Call ATN Healthcare at (303) 879-7444 for free application assistance
• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging: www.denverregion.org

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Step 3: The IHSS Assessment Process

After applying, Colorado’s Case Management Agency (CMA) will:

1. Schedule a home visit to evaluate your care needs
2. Create a care plan detailing approved services/hours
3. Assign a provider (like ATN Healthcare) or let you hire a family caregiver

Tip: The process takes 30–90 days. Keep copies of all paperwork!

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Step 4: Start Receiving IHSS Services

Once approved:

• Choose a provider (e.g., ATN Healthcare) or self-direct care with CDASS
• Services begin (typically within 2 weeks of approval)
• Reassessments occur annually

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Colorado IHSS FAQs

❓ Can family members get paid as IHSS caregivers?

Yes! Through the CDASS program, relatives (except spouses) can be paid caregivers.

❓ What if I’m denied IHSS?

You can appeal within 30 days. Contact Colorado Legal Services for help.

❓ Does IHSS cover 24/7 care?

No—IHSS typically covers part-time care. For 24/7 needs, ask about EBD or CHCBS waivers.

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Need Help? ATN Healthcare Simplifies IHSS

Navigating IHSS can be overwhelming. Let us help:
🔹 Free eligibility checks
🔹 Application assistance
🔹 Trusted IHSS provider services

📞 Call us today at (303) 879-7444 or visit www.atnhealth.com

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Key Takeaways

1. IHSS helps Coloradans get home care paid by Medicaid
2. Eligibility depends on income, health needs, and residency
3. Apply via PEAK, paper form, or with local agency help
4. ATN Healthcare can guide you through every step

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