Group Home Transition Checklist For Florida APD-Eligible Individuals & Families
- stephen weik
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
Before placement, make sure you’ve completed each section below. All links are official APD or State of Florida resource
s.
✅ 1. Confirm APD Eligibility
You must first be determined eligible by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
Task | Complete |
Submit APD “Application for Services” form | ☐ |
Gather documentation (diagnosis, evaluations, proof of residency) | ☐ |
Received APD eligibility determination letter | ☐ |
If eligible but waiting for waiver: understand waitlist status | ☐ |
🔗 Apply for APD services (official link): https://apd.myflorida.com/services/apply.htm
✅ 2. Understand Funding (iBudget Florida Waiver)
Task | Complete |
Confirm Medicaid eligibility | ☐ |
Support Coordinator assigned (or requesting one) | ☐ |
Discuss level of support and residential options | ☐ |
Review ISP (Individual Support Plan) before placement | ☐ |
🔗 What the iBudget Waiver covers (official APD):https://apd.myflorida.com/medicaid/ibudget/
iBudget Handbook (services list PDF):https://apd.myflorida.com/ibudget/docs/ibudget-handbook.pdf
✅ 3. Touring Group Homes (Compare Options)
Ask these when touring homes:
Question | Complete |
Is the home licensed by APD? | ☐ |
What is the staffing ratio (days/nights/weekends)? | ☐ |
How are medications handled? | ☐ |
What does a typical daily schedule look like? | ☐ |
How do residents participate in community outings/activities? | ☐ |
How often are family visits and calls allowed? | ☐ |
Does the home assist with transportation (day program, appointments)? | ☐ |
Are behavior supports available if needed? | ☐ |
APD provider requirements for group homes: https://apd.myflorida.com/providers/group-homes.htm
✅ 4. Preparing for Move-In Day
Task | Complete |
Pack labeled clothing and personal items | ☐ |
Provide medication list + signed physician orders | ☐ |
Provide emergency contacts + preferred hospital | ☐ |
Review home rules and expectations | ☐ |
Add personal comfort items (photos, pillow, favorite items) | ☐ |
Review financial/logistical items (SSI, allowance, rep payee, etc.) | ☐ |
🟦 Tip: Create a “Comfort Binder” with photos, favorite routines, foods, communication needs, etc.
✅ 5. Resident Rights & Safety
Every resident in an APD-licensed home has rights:
Requirement | Complete |
You received a copy of Residents’ Rights | ☐ |
You received APD’s Zero Tolerance Policy | ☐ |
You know how to report concerns or abuse | ☐ |
APD Zero Tolerance Policy: https://apd.myflorida.com/zero-tolerance/
Disability Rights Florida (complaint/report page): https://disabilityrightsflorida.org/
✅ 6. After Move-In (First 30 Days)
Task | Complete |
Person-centered support plan reviewed | ☐ |
Daily or weekly family check-ins scheduled | ☐ |
Attend ISP or Support Coordinator review meeting | ☐ |
Establish preferred routines and goals | ☐ |
Encourage participation in social activities | ☐ |
👍 Suggested Items to Pack
Personal Items
☐ Comfortable clothes (labeled)
☐ Shoes (everyday + non-slip)
☐ Sleepwear / slippers
☐ Weather-appropriate clothing (jacket / raincoat / hat)
Comfort / Emotional Items
☐ Favorite blanket or pillow
☐ Photos of family or pets
☐ Fidget toys / sensory items (if applicable)
Documents
☐ Medication list & doctor’s orders
☐ Insurance/Medicaid card (copy)
☐ ID, Social Security card (if required by coordinator)
⭐ Important Reminder
Families have the right to choose any APD-licensed group home that fits their loved one’s needs. Placement is not assigned — YOU choose.
Comments