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The Palm Tran Connection form serves as an essential document for individuals seeking paratransit services in Palm Beach County, Florida. This application enables residents with disabilities to request transportation assistance that meets their unique needs. The form comprises various sections tailored to assess eligibility for different programs. Applicants must complete Part 1 with their general rider information, including personal details, contact information, and mobility aids used. Following this, applicants will either verify their income for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program in Part 3 or disclose their disability in Part 4 for the Americans with Disabilities Program. Each eligibility request is subject to a thorough review process that may take up to 21 days, ensuring applicants are treated fairly. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it's important to note that simply having a disability doesn't guarantee eligibility; rather, it hinges on the individual’s functional ability to navigate the fixed-route bus system independently. The completed application can be submitted through multiple channels, including mail, fax, email, or in person, allowing for flexibility in the submission process. For additional support, contact details are provided for Palm Tran CONNECTION’s eligibility department, helping individuals understand their rights, including the option to appeal any eligibility decision. Careful attention to detail when completing the application is crucial, as incomplete forms could lead to delays in service."

Palm Tran Connection Example

Paratransit Eligibility Application

www.palmtran.org

Completed applications accepted via mail / fax / email or in person at:

Palm Tran CONNECTION

Community Transportation Coordinator

50 South Military Trail, Suite 101

West Palm Beach, Florida 33415

Monday – Friday

8am – 4:30pm

561-649-9838 option 4

1-877-870-9849 toll-free outside local calling area

Eligibility Fax: 561-656-7156

Email: connpalmeligibility@pbcgov.org

INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THIS APPLICATION: Please complete the appropriate Part(s) of this application depending upon which programs you are eligible for. If you do not complete the appropriate Part(s), we will not consider your eligibility for that program. If you complete two or more Part(s), we will consider your eligibility for multiple programs.

Regardless of program preference, Part 1 must be completed in its entirety.

Part 1:General Rider Information

Part 2:Applicant Signature Page

Part 3:Verification of Income Transportation Disadvantaged Program OR Bus Pass Program

Part 4:Verification of Disability Americans with Disabilities Program

Per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), complementary Paratransit is not intended to be a comprehensive system of transportation for individuals with disabilities.

The completed application will be reviewed within 21 days after it is received by Palm Tran CONNECTION to determine the applicant’s eligibility for service. If a decision is not made within 21 days of receiving a completed application, the applicant shall be treated as eligible and shall be provided service unless PTC denies the application. Applicants who are denied eligibility have the right to appeal that decision. Please contact the eligibility department if you have further questions.

The information in this application will be used by Palm Tran CONNECTION for the provision of transportation services. Information will be available to other transit providers as necessary for appropriate transportation services only. The information will not be provided to any other person or agency. This document is available in an alternative format upon request.

APPLICATIONS ARE PROCESSED IN THE ORDER THEY ARE RECEIVED.

PROCESSING APPLICATIONS MAY TAKE FROM 7 TO 21 DAYS OF RECEIPT TO COMPLETE.

Revised April 2019

Paratransit Eligibility Process

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Palm Tran offers paratransit service for persons with physical, cognitive, visual or other disabilities which functionally prevent them from using our fixed-route bus system permanently, temporarily or under certain conditions. Disability alone does not consent one’s eligibility for ADA paratransit service. The decision is based solely on the applicant's functional ability to use Palm Tran fixed-route service. All Palm Tran buses are fully assessable and compliant with the requirements of the ADA. The unavailability of fixed-route service, difficulties using fixed route or long travel times do not constitute eligibility for paratransit service.

PALM TRAN CONNECTION APPLICATION PROCESS

All applicants seeking ADA Paratransit Service must undergo an eligibility determining process. The application process includes, but not limited to:

A personal assessment or in-person interview may be required to determine applicant’s disability.

A medical verification of the disability completed and signed by a licensed physician.

Functional inability to use public transportation includes the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Categories 1, 2 and 3 as described in this application.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) CATEGORIES:

Check the categories of eligibility that you recommend should apply.

1.[ ] The individual is unable, as a result of a physical or mental impairment (including a vision impairment), and without the assistance of another individual, (except the operator of a wheelchair lift or other boarding device), to board, ride, or disembark from an accessible bus or rail vehicle.

2.[ ] The individual needs the assistance of a wheelchair lift or other boarding assistance device and is able, with such assistance, to board, ride, and disembark from accessible transit vehicles. (The individual would be eligible if an accessible vehicle is not available.)

3.[ ] The individual has a specific impairment-related condition which prevents the individual from traveling to or from: Palm Tran fixed route bus stop.

4.[ ] Check here, if none of these categories apply.

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Part 1

General Rider Information

Please Print Pick Up Information

Last Name: ______________________________ First Name: __________________________ MI: _____

Street Address: _______________________________________ Apt#:_________ Bldg#:_____________

 

 

 

*Address must be clearly visible from the street

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(or

Building/Complex or Development Name:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

closest cross street/major intersection)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City:

 

 

 

 

State:

 

Zip:

 

 

Telephone:

 

 

Date of Birth:

 

 

 

 

 

Email address:_______________________________________________

Mailing Address if different

Street Address: _______________________________________ Apt#:_________ Bldg#:_____________

City:

 

State:

 

 

Zip:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In case of emergency, please notify:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Name/Relationship/Address

 

 

 

Contact Phone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A.Please indicate below if you use any of the following mobility aids or equipment (check all that apply)

Cane

Walker Wide Walker

 

Crutches

Standard Wheelchair

Wide Wheelchair

Leg Braces

Electric Wheelchair

Wide Electric Wheelchair

Oxygen

Electric Scooter/Cart Wide Electric Scooter/Cart

Service Animal

White Cane (blind)

 

Sighted (person) Guide

Portable Medical Equipment (oxygen tank, etc.)

Other (please specify)_______________________________________________________

I don’t use any of the above mobility aids or equipment

Note: We may not be able to accommodate you if your wheelchair/scooter is longer than 54 inches or wider than 34 inches or if your total weight when occupying your wheelchair exceeds 600 pounds.

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Part 1 (Continued)

B.Do you require the assistance of a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) (someone who must travel with you to assist you with daily life functions)?

No

Always

Sometimes

A PCA is not provided by Palm Tran Connection. Personal Care Attendant (PCA) is someone who is provided by you,

to help with your personal needs, including traveling. A PCA may always travel with an eligible client.

*Please note that we may require you to travel with a PCA if your condition or disability is severe.

C.Do you need to have information given to you in an alternative format? If yes, please indicate: Large print Other:___________________________________________

Part 2

Applicant Certification – Signature

I understand that the information about my disability contained in this application will be kept confidential and shared only with professionals involved in evaluating my eligibility for the provision of transportation services. Your information will also be available to other transit providers as necessary for appropriate transportation services. The information will not be provided to any other person or agency. I certify that, to the best of my knowledge, the information in this evaluation form is true and correct. Any person who knowingly makes a false or misleading statement in an application may be denied eligibility for Paratransit services.

Applicant’s Signature: _______________________________ Date: ______________________

If applicant is unable to sign due to disability, a Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy document is required.

If someone assisted you in completing this form, please provide contact information:

Name: _______________________________ Phone: _____________________________________

In Case of an Evacuation:

In the event of a mandatory evacuation order issued by Palm Beach County Emergency Management due to a Hurricane or Flood, would you need transportation to a shelter?

Yes No

To register for the Special Care Unit, please contact the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center at (561) 712-6400.

Be advised Nursing Homes, Assisted Living and Rehabilitation Facilities are responsible for the transportation of their resident to a shelter due to a mandatory evacuation order issued by Palm Beach County Emergency Management.

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Part 3 Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) Program – Does not require a disability.

Application Certification – Verification of Income

A.To apply for the Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) Program, please complete the following:

Total monthly income $____________________

Please attach proof of your total income, before tax, including wages, tips, any Social Security income, Pension and other.

Acceptable forms of proof include:

 

1st page of your Tax return

DCF Benefit Letter

Minimum of (2) pay stub statements

Retirement/Pension Statement

Social Security Income verification

Unemployment Compensation Income verification

Do you have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life

activities?*

No

Always

Sometimes

 

If yes, Please specify the nature of the impairment:

Mobility Impairment (Stroke, brain spinal nerve trauma)

Neurological Disability (MS, MD, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, other) Visual Disability (Macular Degeneration, visually impaired, legally blind)

Uncontrolled Fatigue (Chemo/Radiation, Dialysis)

Cognitive or Sensory Impairment (Autism, down syndrome, dementia, developmental, other) Impairment Related (Hearing impaired, Cardiac/COPD, respiratory, arthritis, neuropathy)

*Question is required, but not used in determining your eligibility

Part 4

Applicant Certification – Verification of Disability

A. To apply for the American’s With Disability Act Program, please complete the following:

Please indicate below the reasons why you are seeking Door to Door eligibility (check all that apply)

To qualify for Palm Tran CONNECTION a person must be UNABLE to use Palm Tran fixed-route buses due to a physical or mental impairment related condition

Because of my disability, I can never use the Palm Tran fixed-route bus service

I can use Palm Tran fixed-route buses sometimes, but only if they are equipped with wheelchair lifts

I can use Palm Tran fixed-routes buses to go some places, but in other places I cannot get to or from the bus stops

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Part 4 (Continued)

B.What type(s) of disabilities prevent you from using Palm Tran buses? (check all that apply):

Mobility Impairment (Stroke, brain spinal nerve trauma)

Neurological Disability (MS, MD, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, other) Visual Disability (Macular Degeneration, visually impaired, legally blind)

Uncontrolled Fatigue (Chemo/Radiation, Dialysis)

Cognitive or Sensory Impairment (Autism, down syndrome, dementia, developmental, other) Impairment Related (Hearing impaired, Cardiac/COPD, respiratory, arthritis, neuropathy)

Please describe your disability in more detail: ______________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

C. Is the disability described above temporary or permanent?

Temporary, I expect it to last for another __________ months

Permanent I don’t know

D. Have you ever used Palm Tran fixed-route bus service?

Yes, I use the following bus routes __________________________________________

No

E. When are you UNABLE to use the Palm Tran fixed-route bus? (Please indicate below – check all that apply to you)

I can use Palm Tran regular bus service for some trips, but other times there are barriers that prevent me from using the bus.

I have difficulty understanding, become disoriented easily and/or remembering all of the things I would have to do to use the bus.

I can only get to and from bus stops if the distance is not too great and there are curb cuts and sidewalks on the route.

I can only wait at Palm Tran bus stops if there is a bench or shelter and/or I cannot cross busy streets and intersections.

The severity of my disability can change from day to day. I can ride the bus only when I am feeling good.

I have difficulty or cannot climb stairs and can only board a Palm Tran bus if is has a lift or ramp.

I have a health condition and cannot ride the bus if the walk is too far or if the weather is

too hot.

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Part 4 Continued

F. Would any of the following help you to use the fixed-route buses?

Route and schedule information Bus stops closer to your home A communication aid

Bus stops closer to where I live and where I need to go None of these would help

Travel Training (how to ride the bus)

G.Can you ask for and follow written or verbal instructions to use Palm Tran fixed-route buses?

Yes NoSometimes

If you choose either NO or sometimes, please check all that apply

I get confused and might get lost

I probably could with instruction

Other people cannot understand me

○Other:___________________________

H.Without the help of someone else, are you ABLE to do the following? (check all that apply)

Walk up and down three steps if there are handrails on both sides Use a telephone to get information

Ask for and follow written or oral instructions Cross the street if there are curb cuts

Get on and off a Palm Tran bus if it has a wheelchair lift

Wait 30 minutes at a bus stop that does not have a bench or shelter

Easily hear the bus drivers’ voices when they announce bus routes while you are standing outside or inside the bus

Step on and off a sidewalk that does not have a curb cut Cross streets and intersections

Hear traffic well enough to safely cross streets

See well enough to walk to a bus stop if someone shows you the way once

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Part 4 Continued

I.Using a mobility aid (wheelchair, etc.) or on your own, how far can you walk or travel?

Cannot walk outside my house/apartment

I can get to the curb in front of my house/apartment I can walk or use wheelchair up to 3 blocks

I can walk or use wheelchair up to 6 blocks I can walk or use wheelchair up to 9 blocks

J.Can you WAIT up to 30 minutes for the Palm Tran fixed-route bus at a bus stop?

Yes

Yes, only if the stop has a bench and shelter Yes, but I do not like to wait that long

No, explain:____________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

If applying for the Americans with Disabilities Program or the Transportation Disadvantaged

Program, please have your PHYSICIAN complete the attached

(MEDICAL VERFICATION FORM)

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MEDICAL VERIFICATION

(THIS PORTION TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT)

Please Print/Type Below

I certify that I am a person with a disability as described by the American with Disabilities Act. I further state that my physician or other certifying practitioner has completed the statement of certification below on my behalf, as required.

Name of Applicant as printed on the Identification

Date of Birth

Sex

Street Address

Signature of Applicant, Parent or Guardian of Applicant

Date Signed

City

State

Zip Code

MEDICAL VERIFICATION, CONTINUED

(THIS PORTION TO BE COMPLETED BY A LICENSED PHYSICIAN)

1.Keeping in mind that all Palm Tran buses are 100% wheelchair accessible, can the applicant ever use a regular bus?

 Yes

 No

 Sometimes

2.MOBILITY IMPAIRMENT:

Non-ambulatory disability (required wheelchair to travel) Please specify the condition which requires full time use of a wheelchair.

Ambulatory disability (ambulation may be limited, but able to walk with or without mobility aid, may use wheelchair but can transfer to a seat with little or no assistance).

Amputation (detail extremity):

Stroke

Brain Spinal Nerve Trauma

Other:

3.MOBILITY AID: PLEASE INDICATE ALL THAT APPLY

Standard Wheelchair

Cane

Other:______________________________________________

Wide Wheelchair

Walker

 

Scooter

Crutches

___________________________________________________

Wide Scooter

Braces

 

Service Animal

 

 

4.NEUROLOGICAL DISABILITY (MOTOR DYSFUNCTION):

Multiple Sclerosis

Epilepsy

Other:______________________________________________

Muscular Dystrophy

Alzheimer’s

 

Cerebral Palsy

Parkinson’s

___________________________________________________

5.VISUAL DISABILITY:

Macular Degeneration

Visually Impaired

Legally Blind – If this person is legally blind complete the following:

Corrected visual acuity:

Right Eye

 

 

 

Left Eye

 

 

 

(Please attach Snellen reports of both eyes)

Corrected Field of vision:

Right Eye

 

 

 

Left Eye

 

 

 

(Please attach Perimeter chart reports of both eyes)

6.UNCONTROLLED FATIGUE:

Chemo/Radiation

Dialysis

Page 1 of 2

MEDICAL VERIFICATION, CONTINUED

(TO BE COMPLETED BY A LICENSED PHYSICIAN)

7.COGNITIVE OR SENSORY IMPAIRMENT:

Autism

Dementia

Other:______________________________________________

Down Syndrome

Alzheimer’s

 

 

 

 

Developmental Disability

Emotional

___________________________________________________

Level of impairment: Mild

Moderate Severe Profound

I.Q.:

 

(Must specify)

8.IMPAIRMENT RELATED CONDITION:

Hearing Impaired

Arthritis

Other:______________________________________________

Cardiac

Neuropathy

 

Respiratory / COPD

 

___________________________________________________

9.DESCRIBE IN DETAIL THE APPLICANTS PRIMARY DISABILITY: (BE SPECIFIC):

10.IS THIS DISABILITY:

Permanent

Temporary: This is to certify that the applicant stated within is a person with a temporary disability (six months or less) that limits or impairs his/her ability to walk or is temporarily sight impaired.

Date of Disability:

 

through recovery date of

Is this disability controlled by medication? Yes No

Explain:

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please attach any pertinent medical documentation (Test Results, Notes, Reports, etc.) that would help to explain the diagnosis or limitations on the applicant’s ability to utilize Palm Tran’s mass transit system.

WARNING: Any person who knowingly makes a false or misleading statement in an application or certification may be denied eligibility to Paratransit services.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print/Type Name of Certifying

Medical

Authority

 

 

 

Signature

 

Date Signed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Street Address

 

 

 

(Area Code) Telephone Number

Fax

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

State

Zip Code

Certification or License No. (REQUIRED)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LICENSED IN THE STATE OF:

 

_____________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Form Characteristics

Fact Name Detail
Application Submission Applications can be submitted via mail, fax, email, or in person.
Response Time The application will be reviewed within 21 days of receipt.
Program Parts Applicants must complete specific parts of the application based on program eligibility.
Governing Law The application process complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Confidentiality Assurance Personal information will only be shared with relevant professionals evaluating eligibility.

Guidelines on Utilizing Palm Tran Connection

Completing the Palm Tran Connection form is essential for those seeking paratransit services. Once the form is filled out, applicants can submit it through multiple channels, including mail, fax, email, or in person. The processing time can take between 7 to 21 days, after which applicants will be informed about their eligibility status.

  1. Begin with Part 1: General Rider Information. Fill out your last name, first name, middle initial, street address, apartment number, and building number. Ensure the address is clear from the street.
  2. Complete the city, state, and zip code fields. Provide your telephone number, date of birth, and email address.
  3. If your mailing address is different from your residential address, fill it out similarly by providing the street address, apartment number, building number, city, state, and zip code.
  4. In the emergency contact section, provide a contact name, relationship, address, and phone number.
  5. Indicate any mobility aids or equipment you use by checking all that apply.
  6. Answer whether you require assistance from a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) and specify if you need information in an alternative format.
  7. Proceed to Part 2: Applicant Certification. Sign the application and date it. If unable to sign due to a disability, include a Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy document.
  8. If someone assisted you in completing the form, provide their name and phone number.
  9. Answer the evacuation transportation question regarding hurricanes or floods.
  10. Move to Part 3: Verification of Income if applying for the Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) Program. Report your total monthly income and attach the necessary proof of income.
  11. Indicate whether you have a physical or mental impairment that limits major life activities. If yes, provide details of the impairment.
  12. Finally, if applying for the Americans with Disabilities Act Program in Part 4, explain the reasons for seeking door-to-door eligibility by checking all that apply.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Palm Tran Connection form used for?

The Palm Tran Connection form is primarily for individuals seeking paratransit services due to disabilities that prevent them from using the fixed-route bus system. This program aims to provide door-to-door transportation options for those with physical, cognitive, or visual impairments, making public transportation accessible for a broader range of people.

How can I submit my completed application?

You can submit your completed Palm Tran Connection application via multiple methods. Options include mailing the application to the Palm Tran CONNECTION office, faxing it to the provided fax number, or emailing the completed form. Additionally, you can deliver the application in person at their office located at 50 South Military Trail, Suite 101, West Palm Beach, Florida.

What is the processing time for the application?

Applications are processed in the order received, and the review may take between 7 to 21 days from the date of receipt. It is important to ensure that your application is complete to avoid any delays. If a decision is not made within this timeframe, you will be treated as eligible, and services will be provided unless otherwise determined by Palm Tran CONNECTION.

What documents do I need to provide with my application?

Depending on the program you are applying for, you might need different documentation. All applicants must complete Part 1 of the application. If you are applying for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program, proof of income is needed, while applicants for the Americans with Disabilities Program must provide medical verification of their disability completed by a licensed physician. Keep this in mind to ensure a smooth application process.

How does Palm Tran determine my eligibility?

Eligibility is determined based on the applicant's functional ability to use fixed-route services. Physical or mental impairments that prevent the individual from independently using the bus system are assessed. The Palm Tran team may require a personal assessment, in-person interview, and medical verification to accurately evaluate your eligibility.

Can I appeal if my application is denied?

If an applicant is found ineligible for paratransit services, they have the right to appeal this decision. It is recommended that you contact the eligibility department directly for further information on the appeal process, including necessary steps and timelines.

What if I need assistance while traveling?

If you require assistance while traveling, you may need a Personal Care Attendant (PCA). However, it is crucial to understand that Palm Tran does not provide PCAs. Individuals using the service can have their own PCA accompany them. Depending on your condition, Palm Tran may also require a PCA's presence during your travel.

Is the application process confidential?

Yes, the information you provide in the Palm Tran Connection application is treated as confidential. Your data will only be shared with professionals involved in evaluating your eligibility for transportation services. It will not be provided to external agencies or individuals without your consent.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Palm Tran Connection form can be straightforward, but mistakes often occur. One common error is not completing Part 1 in its entirety. This section is mandatory and provides essential information about the applicant. If this part is incomplete, the application cannot be processed and may be rejected outright.

Another mistake is failing to check the appropriate categories under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) eligibility. The applicant needs to correctly identify which category applies to their condition. Misunderstanding these categories could lead to an inaccurate assessment of eligibility.

Inaccurately reporting financial information is also a frequent issue. When applying for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program, any income reported must be truthful and backed with proper documentation. Providing incorrect figures or not attaching proof can delay the application process significantly.

Some applicants overlook the signature requirement. Signing the applicant certification is crucial. Without a signature, Palm Tran cannot confirm the information provided, leading to potential denial of the application.

Not indicating the need for a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) can be another blunder. If an applicant requires assistance while traveling, they must indicate this clearly. Failing to do so may result in unexpected complications during service use.

Providing an outdated or incorrect emergency contact can hinder the responsiveness of Palm Tran in case of urgent situations. Ensure that all emergency information is current and accurate to facilitate timely assistance when needed.

Finally, many applicants forget to submit all parts of the application at once. If multiple parts are needed, submitting them separately can result in a longer processing time. Always check that all parts of the application are completed and submitted together to avoid any delays.

Documents used along the form

The Palm Tran Connection form is often accompanied by several important documents that help establish an individual's eligibility for transportation services. Understanding these documents can streamline the application process and ensure that all necessary information is provided. Below is a list of commonly used forms and their brief descriptions.

  • Personal Assessment Form: This document gathers detailed information about the applicant's daily living needs and mobility challenges. It may include questions about medical history and the ability to use public transportation.
  • Medical Verification Form: A licensed physician completes this form to confirm the applicant's disability status. It serves as an important piece of evidence during the eligibility assessment.
  • Income Verification Document: To qualify for certain programs, applicants must provide proof of income. This could include tax returns or social security statements to establish financial eligibility.
  • Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Information Form: If applicable, this form identifies a PCA who will assist the applicant during travel. It is important to state the relationship and needs associated with having a PCA accompany them.
  • Emergency Contact Form: This document provides contact information for a person who should be notified in case of an emergency during transit. It’s critical for ensuring safety in unexpected situations.
  • Request for Alternative Formats: Individuals may fill out this form if they require information in formats such as large print or Braille, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.
  • Evacuation Transportation Request: This form indicates whether the applicant would require transportation assistance during mandatory evacuations due to emergencies like hurricanes or floods.
  • Incidental Travel Confirmation: This document confirms the instances where the applicant may need to travel outside of their regular appointments, aiding in the planning of service availability.
  • Application for Transportation Disadvantaged Program: This specific form applies to those seeking support without necessarily qualifying under disability guidelines. It provides necessary information to assess the applicant's overall needs for transit services.
  • Appeal Request Form: In case of denial, this form allows applicants to formally appeal a decision, ensuring their rights are respected throughout the process.

These documents play a significant role in ensuring that applicants receive the necessary services tailored to their specific needs. Being thorough and precise while filling out these forms can expedite the eligibility determination process with Palm Tran Connection.

Similar forms

  • Paratransit Application for Other Transit Services - Similar to the Palm Tran Connection form, other paratransit applications require detailed information about the applicant's disability and mobility needs. They also involve a verification process, including personal assessments or medical documents to confirm disability status.
  • Medicaid Transportation Authorization Form - This document serves a similar purpose, allowing individuals to access transportation services covered by Medicaid. Like the Palm Tran form, it involves providing personal information and medical verification to ensure the applicant qualifies for transport assistance.
  • Social Security Disability Application - When applying for benefits, individuals must submit extensive information about their disability's impact on daily life. This process parallels the Palm Tran application, as both require substantial documentation to establish eligibility based on functional ability.
  • ADA Accommodations Request Form - This form seeks to outline specific needs related to disabilities. It shares similarities with the Palm Tran Connection form in that both require applicants to detail their disabilities and the assistance they might need, whether it’s transportation or accommodations in public spaces.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Palm Tran Connection form, there are essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Following these guidelines can help streamline your application process and ensure you meet eligibility requirements. Here’s a list to guide you:

  • Do fill out Part 1 completely. This is crucial regardless of which program you are applying for.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. Incomplete applications may be automatically rejected.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information. Misrepresentation can lead to a denial of services.
  • Don't rush through the process. Take your time to read and understand each question.
  • Do attach any requested documentation, such as proof of income or medical verification.
  • Don't submit your application without checking that all information is correct and complete.
  • Do contact the eligibility department if you have questions during the application process.

Misconceptions

  • Anyone can apply for/receive Palm Tran Connection services. This is not true. Eligibility is specifically determined by an applicant's functional ability to use the fixed-route bus system. Having a disability does not automatically mean someone qualifies for paratransit services.
  • All applications are processed immediately. Applications are processed in the order they are received. Depending on various factors, it may take from 7 to 21 days for an application to be reviewed and processed.
  • Applying for multiple programs is unnecessary. In fact, applicants can complete multiple Parts of the application to be considered for various programs, provided they submit the appropriate information.
  • Completing the application incorrectly has no consequences. If an applicant does not fill out the required Parts completely or correctly, the application may not be considered for the intended program.
  • Personal Care Attendants (PCAs) are supplied by Palm Tran Connection. This is a misconception. Applicants must provide their own PCA if needed. Palm Tran does not supply these attendants.
  • Submitting an incomplete application will still result in service. An incomplete application will not be processed. It’s vital to provide all necessary information for the determination of eligibility.
  • The information provided on the application can be shared freely. The information is confidential. It will only be shared with professionals involved in evaluating eligibility and will not be disclosed to unauthorized individuals or agencies.

Key takeaways

Completing the Palm Tran Connection form is essential for individuals seeking paratransit services due to disabilities. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Know the Required Parts: The application consists of multiple parts. Part 1 must be fully completed, while other parts vary based on eligibility requirements for specific programs.
  • Timely Processing: After submitting your application, it may take between 7 to 21 days for Palm Tran CONNECTION to process your request. During this time, applicants are deemed eligible if no decision is made.
  • Documentation is Crucial: Be prepared to provide necessary documentation, like medical verification, to support your disability claim and ensure that your application reflects your needs accurately.
  • Appeal Rights: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Understanding this process is key to maintaining access to necessary transportation services.