What to Do If You’re Denied APD Services (Appeals & Next Steps)

What Happens If Your APD Application Is Denied?

Denials can be frustrating, but they do not mean the end of the road. Many applicants successfully appeal and gain approval after submitting additional information or correcting errors.

Steps to Take If You’re Denied:

1. Understand the Reason for Denial

• Carefully read the denial letter to determine why the application was rejected. Common reasons include:

• Lack of medical documentation

• Condition not meeting APD eligibility criteria

• Application errors

2. Request an Informal Review

• Before filing a formal appeal, you can contact APD and request a review of your case. This may resolve minor issues quickly.

3. File a Formal Appeal

• If the denial stands, you have the right to appeal through the Florida Office of Appeals Hearings.

• Deadlines: You must submit the appeal request within 30 days of receiving the denial letter.

4. Gather Additional Evidence

• Obtain new medical evaluations, functional assessments, or expert letters supporting your claim.

• Work with a disability advocate or attorney if needed.

5. Attend the Appeal Hearing

• You will have the opportunity to present evidence and explain why you

qualify for services.

• Bring documentation and be prepared to discuss how the disability affects daily living.

6. Explore Other Options While You Wait

• While waiting for the appeal decision, look into other disability support programs such as Medicaid services, school-based therapies, and community disability organizations.

If you are denied APD Services, a denial isn’t final—persistence and proper documentation can lead to a successful outcome. We here at Audubon Gardens Group and our clients are living, breathing proof of as much! On separate occasions, we have been denied funding and support services for our existing clients and have even received new clients that were recently denied services through MCM Reviews (Medical Case Management) at the regional level and/or SANs Requests (Significant Additional Needs) at the state level... and we overcame those initial denials to deliver for our clients!

If we can do it, so can you!