What do I do if IHSS loses my paperwork?

Published: Jan. 29, 2026Updated: Feb. 23, 2026

Some families run into issues with IHSS when the county claims to have lost their paperwork or says that they have sent a Notice of Action (NOA) that was never received. Families may wonder how to appeal a denial that they never got in the mail.

Undivided Public Specialist Lisa Concoff Kronbeck recommends calling the IHSS helpline (888-822-9622 option 4) and asking for a copy of all notices that have been sent out. If you can't get a copy of the NOA but you have been told it's been denied, you can file an appeal and note on the appeal that you were denied but the county refuses to provide a NOA.

For more information, see our article about appealing an IHSS decision, or work through our step-by-step guide in the Undivided app.

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It is very common to be denied for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) the first time around, but many families succeed after appealing by requesting a state hearing. Learn how to appeal the decision if you are denied.

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