There’s an important update to the IHSS Electronic Services Portal (ESP). To better protect your account and personal information, the sign-in process has changed.
Providers and recipients who use ESP should review these changes to avoid any interruptions when accessing your accounts.
Starting October 24, 2026, the IHSS Electronic Services Portal (ESP) will begin using a One-Time Passcode (OTP) to verify your identity and help keep your account safe.
Instead of a password, you will use a temporary passcode that is valid for ten (10) minutes and can only be used once. This helps protect your account. The passcode changes every time, making it harder for anyone else to get into your account.
You can choose to receive your One-Time Passcode by email, text message, or an automated voice call to your phone based on your contact information on file. This change will happen in phases, so you might not see it right away.
When will you need a One-Time Passcode?
- You are an existing ESP user and your password has expired.
- As an existing ESP user, you choose to reset your password.
- You are a first-time user registering for an ESP account.
- Logging into your ESP account.
- Logging into the Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) Mobile App.
- Updating your contact information.
- Setting up Direct Deposit.
- Changing your email address with the assistance of the IHSS Service Desk.
- The recipient assigns a provider through the eHire process.
How do you log in to ESP with a One-Time Passcode?
- Go to the ESP website at www.etimesheets.ihss.ca.gov and enter your ESP Username, then select Continue.
- Then, you will be taken to the ESP One-Time Passcode Login screen.
- Select how you want to receive your passcode: Email, Text, or Phone Call. The available options depend upon the contact information on file with your county IHSS office.
- Select Continue.
- Enter the passcode you received, then select Login.
What if you do not receive your One-Time Passcode?
Wait a few minutes for the passcode to arrive. If you choose email, remember to check both your Inbox and spam folder. If you still do not receive the passcode, select Resend Passcode.
What if my contact information is not correct or I need to update my contact information on file?
ESP users can confirm their information on the Contact Information screen in the ESP. To update your information, you will need to request a one-time passcode and choose how you want to receive it (by email, text, or phone call). After you get the passcode, enter it as instructed. Then select the “edit” button to make updates to your information. Your email address can be edited by contacting the IHSS Service Desk at 866-376-7066 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m – 5 p.m., except holidays).
If you are unable to access your ESP account and need to update your contact information, please contact your IHSS county office.
Important information about your One-Time Passcode
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- Do not share your One-Time Passcode with anyone.
- The passcode expires 10 minutes after it is sent. If it expires, select Resend Code to get a new one.
- If you recently changed your email address or phone number, you must wait 24 hours before the new contact information can be used to receive a passcode, unless additional verification is
completed. - Enter your One-Time Passcode carefully and follow the instructions on the screen. Check your email or phone right away after requesting a passcode so you have enough time to enter it.
- The One-Time Passcode is only sent to you when you request it. If you get a passcode, but you did not request it, please ignore and delete it. Do not click any suspicious links
Need additional help?
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has posted easy-to-follow One-Time Passcode training materials. View the ESP OTP Guide posted at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/esphelp for more information.
You can also join one of their webinars for providers and recipients. In these webinars, they share and review the latest Electronic Services Portal (ESP) features, including the One-Time Passcode, and recent updates. Each webinar includes a live Question and Answer session. The webinar schedule is available at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/esphelp/espwebinars.
If you need help with One-Time Passcode questions, the IHSS Service Desk is available to assist you. You can call the IHSS Service Desk at 866-376-7066 (Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except holidays).