How to Apply for APD Services in Florida

1. How to Apply for APD Services in Florida

Applying for services with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is a crucial first step for families and individuals seeking support. Here’s your step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check EligibilityTo receive services from APD, an individual must:

• Be a Florida resident (domicile in Florida) p

  er § 222.17, Fla. Stat. APD+2APD+2

• Be at least 3 years old, or under age 3 and at high risk for a developmental disability. APD+1

• Have one of the qualifying developmental disabilities, including intellectual disability (IQ ≤ 70), severe autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, spina bifida cystica/myelomeningocele. APD+1

Step 2: Gather Required DocumentationPrepare supporting documentation such as:

• Proof of Florida residency (e.g., Florida ID, voter registration, lease/mortgage). northfloridaschool.org+1

• Medical or school records verifying diagnosis of a qualifying condition. APD+1

• Application form completed and signed. Faxed submissions are not accepted. APD+1

Step 3: Submit the ApplicationYou can submit the “Application for Services” (PDF) via mail or hand‐delivery to the APD regional office serving your county. APD+1

Step 4: Wait for Eligibility Determination & Possible PlacementOnce your application is reviewed, APD will determine eligibility. If eligible, you may be placed on the waitlist for waiver services or other supports. Disability Rights Florida+1

Helpful Links:

• Official APD “Apply for Services” page: https://apd.myflorida.com/services/apply.htm APD

• APD “Applying for Services” overview: https://apd.myflorida.com/customers/application/ APD

Tip for your group home audience:As a provider of group-home services, you can reassure families that you welcome individuals eligible for APD services and are ready to guide them through this application step, helping them understand that once they are eligible, they can then move to placement and support coordination.

2. Understanding the iBudget Florida Waiver: What It Covers & Who Qualifies

The iBudget Florida Waiver is one of the most important programs for individuals with developmental disabilities in Florida. Here’s what families need to know.

What is iBudget Florida?The iBudget Florida Waiver is a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver administered by APD that allows individuals with developmental disabilities to receive services in their home, family home, or community-based licensed residential facility. APD+1

Who qualifies?

• First, you must apply for APD services and be found eligible. APD+1

• Then you must meet the waiver’s criteria, which include having one of the qualifying developmental disabilities and needing a level of care consistent with institutional placement but choosing a community setting instead. APD

What services are covered?Some of the services available under iBudget include residential facility services, supported living, personal care services, training and habilitation, transportation, respite, behavioral supports, and more. Florida Senate+1

Why it matters for choosing a group homeIf your loved one is eligible for iBudget and needs residential care, a licensed group home (like the ones your business offers) can be one of the options funded through the waiver. This means families may be able to access APD funding to reside in your home rather than only pay privately.

Useful link:

• iBudget Florida Information: https://apd.myflorida.com/medicaid/ibudget/ APD