Publication date: 19.06.2025
My name is Ismail T. Shakhtakhtinsky, I am the founder and lead attorney of the I.S. Law Firm, PLLC. My specialty is immigration law, commercial law, and personal injury cases. Prior to starting my own practice, I worked in law firms where I practiced civil law, and also served as a legal adviser for a company in New Orleans. Over the years, I have represented individuals, businesses, international corporations, and even foreign governments, both in Washington, D.C., and beyond. A separate area of my work is asylum cases. For more than 12 years, I have helped thousands of people from all over the world. In my practice, there have been cases when political dissidents from authoritarian countries had to resist falsified Interpol "red notices" issued for political reasons. I regularly speak at conferences and forums on immigration and international law, as well as human rights. I am also often invited as an expert to the American and foreign media, where I comment on changes and trends in US legislation. I am a member of the American Association of Immigration Lawyers (AILA) and am certified to practice international law. My law license is valid in the District of Columbia, as well as in the states of Virginia, Maryland and New York. I am fluent in Azerbaijani, Turkish and Russian.
Lessons and Recommendations Based on This Case
The case of a disabled father and his caregiving daughter demonstrated how legal support can radically change a family’s fate. Instead of months of bureaucracy, frustration, and denials — a productive process that ensured stable income and recognition.
- IHSS is not just a program but a means of survival. It allows people to remain at home instead of entering institutions, preserving quality of life.
- The most important factor is not just eligibility for IHSS, but proper presentation. Detailed care descriptions, medical evidence, honest reporting, and language in documents — all impact the outcome.
- Professional assistance saves months of waiting and reduces the risk of denial. Lawyers know how to communicate with IHSS, which phrases to use, and what documents are truly necessary.
- Don’t give up after the first denial. Most refusals are due to incomplete data or errors in forms. A lawyer can help appeal the decision and achieve approval.
- Caregiving is work — and it should be recognized and compensated. Especially when performed by a family member sacrificing other employment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about IHSS
- Can I receive IHSS if I live with the person I care for?
Yes. In fact, if you live together, you may also qualify for tax-free IHSS income as a live-in provider. - Do I have to be related to the person I care for?
No. A friend, neighbor, or anyone who genuinely provides care and can document it can be a provider. - How many hours does IHSS pay for?
It depends on the assessed needs. Typically from 50 to 283 hours per month. In this case, the client was approved for 121 hours. - Can I work part-time and still be an IHSS provider?
Yes, if you can perform the care during the approved hours. Compensation is based on the number of approved hours, not full-time status. - What should I do if IHSS denies my application?
File an appeal. Many denials occur due to incomplete information or errors on forms. A lawyer can help contest the decision and secure approval. - Can I get IHSS for a disabled child?
Yes. Parents can be paid providers if the child is recognized as needing constant care. - What documents are mandatory?
SOC 873 (signed by the doctor), SOC 295 (ability assessment), Medi-Cal eligibility proof, care schedule, provider’s ID, fingerprints, employment forms.
Legal assistance can be the decisive factor in obtaining IHSS. When the system seems impenetrable — we make it understandable and accessible. You provide the care — we handle the bureaucracy.
Need Help with IHSS? We Are Here
Our team specializes in IHSS, disability benefits, social security, and immigration cases. If you are caring for a loved one and don’t know where to start — contact us. We support you at every step: from the first form to final approval.
- Consultations on IHSS and Medi-Cal
- Filling out all forms and applications
- Contact with social services offices and protecting your interests
- Appeals and resubmissions
Caring is work. We help make sure it is recognized, protected, and legally compensated.
