Skidgel v. Cal. Unemployment Ins. Appeals Bd.

**Family Caregivers Can't Get Unemployment Benefits, Court Rules** This case involved workers who provide in-home care services through California's In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program. Under this program, elderly or disabled people receive government funding to hire caregivers to help them at home. Skidgel and other family members who worked as IHSS caregivers applied for unemployment benefits after losing their jobs, but were denied. The court ruled against the workers, confirming they cannot receive unemployment insurance. The judges determined that under California's Direct Payment Mode system, the care recipients themselves—not the state or county—are the legal employers of IHSS workers. Since these workers were providing care to their own family members, state law specifically excludes them from unemployment benefits coverage. This decision matters because it affects thousands of family caregivers across California. Family members who work as paid IHSS providers cannot count on unemployment benefits if they lose their caregiving positions. This creates financial uncertainty for workers in these roles, as they lack the same safety net available to most other employees. Workers considering IHSS positions should understand this limitation when planning their finances.