The California Department of Social Services has issued an urgent alert about a scam targeting IHSS providers and recipients. Scammers are circulating false messages claiming that IHSS participants can receive a financial “grant” after paying a 500 dollar fee. This offer is not real.

These fraudulent messages are being sent through email, text message, QR codes, phone calls and social media. The goal is to steal personal information, financial details and account credentials.

IHSS will never charge a fee or ask for payment to access benefits, grants or services.

If you receive any message about an IHSS grant that asks you to pay money or provide banking information:

• Do not respond
• Do not click any links
• Do not share personal or financial information

CDSS has posted the official warning on the Electronic Services Portal, which can be viewed at: https://www.etimesheets.ihss.ca.gov/login

If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, notify your local public authority and CDSS immediately.

SEIU 2015 is monitoring this issue and will continue sharing updates to help keep IHSS providers and consumers safe.