APD and the iBudget waiver
What it is. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) determines eligibility for state developmental-disability services. Most services — therapies, behavioral support, respite for children at home, and more — come through the Medicaid-funded iBudget waiver, which has a waiting list. Direct assistance once enrolled; referrals and crisis help while waiting.
Who it's for. Age 3 and up, disability beginning before 18, with one of: intellectual disability (IQ 70 or below), severe autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida (cystica or myelomeningocele; occulta does not qualify), Prader-Willi, Down syndrome, Phelan-McDermid, or Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome. Children 3–5 may qualify as "high risk" without a confirmed diagnosis. APD's screen does not list an income test; Medicaid or SSI eligibility is needed when waiver enrollment is offered.
First step. Apply online at ApplyNow.apd.myflorida.com (opens in a new tab), or send the signed paper Application for Services (opens in a new tab) to your regional office (mail or in person; call before faxing or emailing — APD's pages disagree). Have proof of diagnosis, identity, and Florida residence ready; APD's Quick Guide (opens in a new tab) is the checklist.
In your county.
| County | Office | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | APD Central Region, 400 W. Robinson St., Suite S430, Orlando | 407-245-0440 |
| Volusia | APD Northeast Region, 210 N. Palmetto Ave., Suite 312, Daytona Beach | 386-238-4607 |
| Alachua | APD Northeast Region, 1621 NE Waldo Rd., Bldg 1, Gainesville | 386-238-4607 |
| Duval | APD Northeast Region, 3631 Hodges Blvd., Jacksonville | 386-238-4607 |
Statewide: 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).
Good to know.
- Expect to be placed on the pre-enrollment list. APD assigns one of seven priority categories; crisis situations can move a family up. As of Oct 16, 2026: Orange 1,008 waiting, Volusia 293, Alachua 123, Duval 727.
- Answer APD's yearly check-in letter and tell APD when your circumstances change.
- Free programs while you wait: APD Community Resource Directory (opens in a new tab) and Family Care Council Florida, 1-800-470-8101.
Cost. APD lists no fee to apply; services are Medicaid-funded.
Full guide. Applying to APD and the iBudget waiver
Not yet confirmed: wait by category (APD publishes overall figures only); regional office hours; respite hour limits for children.
Read the application-preparation guide ↗