IHSS in Colorado: What It Is and How It Differs from CDASS
If you or a family member receives Colorado Medicaid services, you have probably come across both terms. They cover similar services; they both run through Colorado Medicaid, and they both help people stay at home instead of moving into a facility. The confusion is understandable.
Here is the core difference: both programs pay for in-home care. What separates them is who manages that care.
What is IHSS in Colorado?
IHSS stands for In-Home Support Services. It is a Colorado Medicaid program that pays for personal care, homemaker services, and health maintenance activities for people with disabilities and older adults who need help with daily tasks at home.
When you receive in-home support services in Colorado through an IHSS agency like Andrea’s Angels, the agency acts as the employer. That means we handle hiring, background checks, training, scheduling, backup coverage when a caregiver is unavailable, and payroll. You have input into who provides your care, but the administrative work sits with us, not with you.
As an IHSS caregiver agency, Andrea’s Angels also provides ongoing supervision, training, and support so that every caregiver is prepared to deliver safe, high quality care from day one.
As of July 1, 2025, IHSS in Colorado is accessed through the Community First Choice (CFC) program. If you are already receiving services through an HCBS waiver, your case manager will walk you through the transition.
What Is CDASS in Colorado?
CDASS stands for Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services, also referred to as Colorado Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services. It is also a Colorado Medicaid program that covers the same types of services: personal care, homemaker services, and health maintenance activities.
The difference is that with CDASS, you are the employer. You find your own CDASS caregiver, interview them, hire them, train them, build the schedule, and arrange backup care when they are unavailable. Payroll goes through a state financial management contractor, but you are running the day-to-day operation.
CDASS Colorado is also now available only through the Community First Choice program, as of July 1, 2025.
CDASS vs IHSS: Which One Is Right for Your Family?
When comparing CDASS vs IHSS, the right choice depends on how much control and responsibility you want to take on.
CDASS can work well if you already have someone specific you want to hire, such as a family member or trusted friend, and you or someone close to you has the time and capacity to take on the employer responsibilities.
IHSS is usually a better fit if you want qualified, vetted care without taking on that administrative work yourself. It is also worth considering if you do not already have someone in mind, if your situation is medically complex, or if you want the backup coverage and oversight that comes with a licensed agency.
One practical note on Colorado IHSS for spouses: both CDASS and IHSS allow you to hire a spouse as an attendant, though the specific rules and eligibility requirements may vary depending on the program and your individual situation. A case manager can help clarify what applies to your family.
CDASS vs IHSS: Side by Side
| CDASS | IHSS (with an agency) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is the employer? | You (or your Authorized Representative) | The agency |
| Who hires the caregiver? | You | The agency, with your input |
| Who handles background checks? | You | The agency |
| Who manages scheduling? | You | The agency |
| Who arranges backup care? | You | The agency |
| Who handles payroll? | A state financial management contractor | The agency |
| Can you hire a spouse? | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Families who want full control and already have someone in mind | Families who want agency support and oversight |
How to Find the Highest Rated IHSS Provider in Colorado
Not all IHSS providers operate the same way. When looking for the highest rated IHSS provider in Colorado, here are the most important things to look for:
- Licensed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
- Experience working with seniors and adults with disabilities
- Thorough caregiver training and background checks
- Reliable backup coverage when your regular caregiver is unavailable
- A careful matching process that considers your loved one’s needs, personality, and preferences
- Clear communication and ongoing oversight of care
These qualities matter because the right agency does more than just send someone to your door. They become a consistent, reliable part of your loved one’s care.
At Andrea’s Angels, we built our services around exactly these principles. We have been supporting families across the Denver Metro, Boulder/Longmont, and Northern Colorado areas for years, and we are always happy to answer your questions before you make any decisions.
How to Get Started with IHSS in Colorado
To access IHSS Colorado services through Colorado Medicaid, start by contacting your local Case Management Agency. They will complete an assessment and, once approved, provide you with a list of IHSS agencies in your area.
If you are not sure where to start, we are here to help. Andrea’s Angels serves families in Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Douglas, Broomfield, Boulder, Larimer, and Weld counties. Reach out to our team today to see how Andrea’s Angels can support your family.
Common Questions About IHSS in Colorado
What is the difference between IHSS and CDASS in Colorado?
Both programs provide similar in-home care services through Colorado Medicaid. The key difference is who manages the care. With IHSS, a licensed agency handles the employer responsibilities. With CDASS, you take on those responsibilities yourself as the employer of your own CDASS caregiver.
How much does IHSS cost in Colorado?
IHSS services in Colorado are covered through Colorado Medicaid. If you qualify, there is no cost to you for the services themselves. Your Case Management Agency can help you determine your eligibility and what services are covered under your specific plan. If you are not sure whether you qualify, Andrea’s Angels is happy to help you navigate the process. Contact us today and let our team point you in the right direction.
Is IHSS only for seniors in Colorado?
No. IHSS in Colorado is available to adults of all ages who have a disability, chronic health condition, or functional limitation that requires assistance with daily living activities. You do not need to be a senior to qualify, as long as you meet the Medicaid and functional eligibility requirements.
Can a spouse be an IHSS caregiver in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado IHSS for spouses is allowed, and the same applies to CDASS, meaning both programs allow you to hire a spouse as an attendant in certain circumstances. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on your specific situation, so a case manager can help clarify what applies to your family.
Can I choose my own caregiver with IHSS in Colorado?
Yes. While the agency handles the hiring process, you have input into who provides your care. A good IHSS agency will take the time to understand your loved one’s needs, preferences, and personality before making a match. At Andrea’s Angels, that careful matching process is something we take seriously with every family we serve.
How do I find a home care agency in Colorado to help with IHSS?
Start by contacting your local Case Management Agency. Once approved, they will provide a list of licensed IHSS providers in your area. Look for an agency that is licensed, experienced, and offers reliable caregiver training and backup coverage. Andrea’s Angels is here to help. Contact us today and let our team find the right care for your family.
