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The Lift Eligibility form is a crucial document for individuals seeking paratransit transportation through the TriMet LIFT service, designed specifically for those with disabilities. This service is governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which ensures that individuals who cannot use regular public transportation due to their disabilities can access necessary transportation options. To qualify for LIFT, applicants must demonstrate that their health conditions hinder their ability to utilize standard bus or MAX services. The form outlines the requirements for eligibility, including the need for a disabling health condition and the impact it has on public transport usage. It also explains the determination process, which involves submitting a completed application, undergoing a professional verification of disability, and participating in an in-person interview with a TriMet LIFT Eligibility Coordinator. During this interview, applicants discuss their travel abilities and may undergo a functional assessment to evaluate their mobility skills. The form further details the types of eligibility that may be granted, including unconditional, conditional, or temporary status, and provides guidance on what to bring to the evaluation. Understanding the Lift Eligibility form is essential for those looking to navigate the application process smoothly and secure the transportation assistance they need.

Lift Eligibility Example

LIFT ELIGIBILITY PROCESS INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: WHO MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR LIFT SERVICE?

The TriMet LIFT service provides paratransit transportation to persons who are certified as eligible under the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA is a federal law that requires paratransit transportation be provided for persons when their disability in combination with their functional abilities prevents them from using regular public transportation.

Please read the enclosed brochure entitled LIFT Eligibility and the Americans with Disabilities Act and the information about TriMet’s services including bus and MAX before completing your application.

Requirements for LIFT Eligibility

The ADA includes two requirements for LIFT eligibility:

1.you must have a disabling health condition, and

2.your disabling health condition must prevent you from using regular bus and/or MAX services on your own, either some or all of the time.

The basis for the eligibility decision is your ability to use TriMet’s regular bus and/or MAX services and the most limiting conditions presented by your disability and the environment.

LIFT eligibility is not based on:

•age alone

•a disability or medical diagnosis by itself

•a lack of TriMet bus or MAX service in an area

•an inability to drive

•personal finances

LIFT eligibility may be granted upon the following basis:

•Unconditional (the person may use LIFT service for all trips)

•Conditional (the person may use LIFT service under some conditions for some trips)

•Temporary (the person may have conditional/unconditional eligibility for a defined period of time because limitations are expected to change)

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Step 2: HOW IS YOUR ELIGIBILITY DETERMINED?

The TriMet LIFT eligibility determination process includes:

1.Submission of a completed application and signed Medical Release Form,

2.Professional verification of disability and abilities,

3.An in-person interview with a TriMet LIFT Eligibility Coordinator, and

4.A functional and/or cognitive assessment as needed.

Interview

At the interview, the Eligibility Coordinator will review the application with you and discuss your travel abilities and limitations in more detail. This information will help the Eligibility Coordinator to identify the best mobility option based on your functional abilities.

The interview will take up to 30 minutes. At the end of the interview, the Eligibility Coordinator will determine if a functional ability assessment is required.

If you will require a non-English language interpreter at the interview, please indicate your language on the application form. A third-party interpreter will be provided at no cost to you.

Functional Ability Assessment

You may be asked to complete an assessment of your functional abilities immediately following the interview. The assessment is designed to help determine whether you have the ability to use fixed-route services and if so, under what circumstances.

The functional assessment will be conducted by an independent Mobility Assessor and consist of demonstrating your abilities on a simulated course that includes slopes, inclines, negotiating a curb and curb cut and crossing the street. Skills evaluated also include balance, strength, coordination and range of motion.

The assessment may also include a walk outside in the neighborhood and/or a short trip on bus and/or MAX. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

The Functional Assessment of Cognitive Transit Skills (FACTS) may be administered to applicants with cognitive disabilities. This assessment tool uses a set of photos of a simulated bus trip to assess a person’s transit skills including bus travel, community safety and general orientation.

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Personal Care Assistance

If you require personal assistance in any daily life functions including using the bathroom, you will need to have someone accompany you to the evaluation to provide this assistance.

TriMet staff is not trained and is unable to assist you with personal care issues.

Depending on the time of day for your appointment, you may also want to bring a light snack with you and any required medications.

Mobility Equipment

Please bring the mobility equipment you will use on LIFT and/or in your daily mobility (i.e. mobility device, walker, cane, etc.).

Transportation to the Evaluation

LIFT eligibility evaluations take place at the TriMet Transit Mobility Center (TMC) at 515 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209. The TMC is located on the MAX Green and Yellow Lines between NW 5th and 6th Avenues and NW Davis and Everett Streets. LIFT will provide transportation for your trips to and from the evaluation at no charge to you if necessary. This location is also served by several bus routes and there is parking available at your cost.

STEP 3: HOW WILL I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE?

Notice of Eligibility Determination

You will be notified of the eligibility determination by letter within 21 days after completion of the evaluation process. If you are eligible, you will also receive a LIFT Rider’s Guide with information about how to use the service.

Appeals Process

If you have any questions about your eligibility determination, you may contact your LIFT Eligibility Coordinator as indicated in the letter to review his or her decision.

Applicants who are determined not eligible or who do not agree with the conditions established for their use of the LIFT service may request an appeal which must be filed within 65 days from the date of the initial eligibility determination. Information on how to request an appeal will be included with the eligibility determination letter.

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STEP 4: INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE APPLICATION

1.Answer all questions completely and to the best of your ability.

2.Be sure to sign the application in Part F on Page 3. Incomplete and/or unsigned applications may be returned to you.

3.Complete and sign the attached Medical Release Form (the last page of the application). Incomplete or unsigned Medical Release Forms may be returned to you.

PLEASE NOTE: This is not a request for medical records or a requirement for you to get a signature from your health professional. Once your application has been received, TriMet will contact your health professional to confirm your disability.

Examples of health professionals include:

Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist

Chiropractor

DSHS/DDD Case/Resource Manager

HCS/AAA Case Manager

MSW employed by a medical facility

Occupational/Physical Therapist

Physician/ Physician Assistant

Psychiatrist/Psychologist

Recreation Therapist

Registered Nurse/Nurse Practitioner

Special Education Teacher

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

4.Return the completed application in the enclosed self-addressed envelope or mail to: TriMet LIFT Transit Mobility Center

515 NW Davis Street Portland, OR 97209

Or fax the application to LIFT Eligibility 503-962-8229.

5.After your application has been reviewed, you will be contacted by phone by LIFT staff to schedule your appointment for the in-person evaluation.

Questions? Please call the LIFT office at 503-962-8200 or TTY at 503-962-8058, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Materials are available in large print and other alternative formats. Assistance for non-English applicants is also available.

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FOR TRIMET USE ONLY

APPLICATION FOR TRIMET LIFT PARATRANSIT SERVICE

Please read carefully. All questions must be answered. Incomplete or unsigned applications may be returned.

Part A. Personal Information

Name

 

Last

 

First

Middle

Home Address

 

 

Unit/Apt. No

City

 

 

State

Zip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address (if different)

 

 

Unit/Apt. No

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

State

Zip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone Number(s)

Email Address_________________________________________________________

Preferred Method of Contact: ☐ Phone ☐ Email ☐TTY ☐VRS ☐Web/Video Chat

Date of Birth ______________________Language of Choice

Are you currently a LIFT Customer? ☐ Yes ☐No

Are you a TriMet Employee, Dependent of a TriMet Employee, TriMet Retiree, or TriMet Contractor? ☐ Yes ☐No

Part B. Emergency Contact Person

Name ____________________________ Relationship to Applicant ______________

Phone Number(s) _____________________________________________________

Email Address________________________________________________________

Additional Emergency Contact: ___________________________________________

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Part C. Disability and/or Health Condition Limiting Your Mobility

1.What is the disability or health condition(s) that limits your mobility and prevents you from using TriMet regular bus and/or MAX service?

 

 

 

 

 

 

_______________

2.

Do the effects or symptoms of your condition vary daily?

☐ Yes

☐ No

 

If yes, please explain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Is your condition: ☐ Permanent ☐ Temporary

 

 

 

 

 

 

If temporary, what is the estimated recovery period?

 

 

Month(s)

Year(s)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part D. Mobility Equipment

1.Indicate which mobility equipment you presently use and would be using when traveling on TriMet LIFT.

☐None

☐Manual Wheelchair

☐Service Animal

☐Cane

☐Power Wheelchair

☐Portable Oxygen

☐Walker

☐Power Scooter

☐Respirator

☐Crutches

☐Extended Footrests

☐Chest Restraint

☐White Cane

☐Lift Mechanism (to board the bus)

☐Prosthetic device

☐Other - please describe:

 

2. If you use a Manual or Power wheelchair or scooter, do you want to transfer to a seat from your device when riding on TriMet LIFT?

☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Sometimes, please explain:

Part E. Optional Information:

The following questions are optional and will have no bearing on your eligibility for TriMet LIFT service.

1.What is your ethnicity?

☐African American

☐Asian/Pacific Islander

☐Caucasian

☐Hispanic/Latino

☐Native American

☐Other____________

2.What is your gender? ☐Female ☐Male ☐Non-binary ☐Other___________

3.Are you a US Veteran? ☐Yes ☐No

4.How did you find out about TriMet LIFT service?

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Part F. Please read the following and sign the application

For the applicant: Applications must be signed. Unsigned applications may be returned.

I understand that the purpose of this application is to determine whether I am eligible to use TriMet LIFT paratransit services. I certify that the information in this application is true and correct. I understand that providing false information may result in denial of service as well as penalty under the law. I understand that information I provide will be disclosed only as needed to evaluate eligibility for LIFT paratransit, and to provide LIFT services if I am determined to be eligible, unless I give other specific authorization.

I understand that it may be necessary for me to participate in an in-person evaluation at TriMet’s expense, to determine my eligibility for LIFT services. I understand that TriMet may review my current ADA LIFT eligibility status at any time whatsoever where circumstances may warrant that I am no longer eligible to receive ADA LIFT transportation service. I give my consent to TriMet or a TriMet Designated Administrative Agency* to take and retain a copy of my photo for purposes of identification for the LIFT and Honored Citizen program. If I am determined eligible for LIFT paratransit service, I will be eligible for the Honored Citizen Program in the event I decide to use the regular bus, MAX or WES trains. I will be sent a TriMet hop card with instructions for use on all TriMet vehicles.

*For the purpose of simplifying the administration of the LIFT program, social service agencies and other organizations that are interested in assisting with completing LIFT applications for their clients may be selected, at TriMet’s discretion, to operate as a Designated Administrative Agency.

If a legal representative signs this application:

I acknowledge that I may be present with the applicant during the in-person evaluation, or I may designate someone to be present on my behalf.

_____________________________________________________________________

Applicant signature, or signature of legal representative

Date

If someone other than the applicant assisted in completing this application, in part or in whole, that person must complete and sign the following:

Name:____________________________Relationship to applicant: ______________

Organization or Agency affiliation: _________________________________________

Address:_____________________________________________________________

Phone: _________________ Fax: ______________ Email: _____________________

I have knowledge of the applicant’s disability or health condition and am aware of how the applicant’s disability or health condition prevents their use of TriMet regular bus and/or MAX: ☐Yes ☐No

____________________________________________________________________

Representative’s signature

Date

 

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Part G. Instructions regarding signatures and submitting application

Before returning the application, please make sure that:

1.You answer all questions in Parts A through F.

2.You sign Part F on Page 3.

NOTE: If another person (not the applicant) completed the application, please have that person complete the information in Part F and sign the application.

3.You complete and sign the attached Medical Release – Authorization For Use and Disclosure Of Protected Health Information on Page 6. The Medical Release form is available in large print upon request .

It may be necessary for TriMet to contact a health professional who is familiar with your disability or health condition. TriMet will not release any medical information obtained with the release(s) you provide to any other party.

Please use the enclosed self-addressed envelope or mail your application to:

TriMet Transit Mobility Center

515 NW Davis Street

Portland, OR 97209

You may instead fax the application to 503-962-8229.

If you have any questions or need assistance in completing the application, including an alternative format, please call the Transit Mobility Center at 503-962-8200, Option #4, TTY 7-1-1

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MEDICAL RELEASE

AUTHORIZATION FOR USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION

All sections must be completed.

I, _______________________________________ authorize:

(Applicant or Patient Name)

Name of professional ________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________

Phone ________________________________ FAX _______________________________

to disclose Protected Health Information (PHI) to the TriMet LIFT (paratransit) Program, 515 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209, for the purpose of assessing whether I am eligible under the Americans with Disabilities Act for TriMet’s LIFT transportation service. Only those persons with disabilities whose disabilities prevent their use of regular TriMet buses and/or MAX service are eligible to use LIFT service.

My PHI may include medical records, diagnostic reports, physical therapy records, and any personal and medical information pertinent to my application for LIFT eligibility. If the information to be disclosed contains any of the types of records or information listed below, additional laws relating to the use and disclosure of the information may apply. I understand and agree that this information will be disclosed only if I place my initials in the space next to the type of information:

___________ Chemical dependency

___________ Sexually transmitted diseases HIV/AIDS

___________ Genetic information

___________ Mental health information (excludes psychotherapy notes)

___________ Reproductive health (including abortion)

I may cancel this authorization at any time by sending a written request to the TriMet LIFT Program,

515 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209. My cancellation of this authorization will not affect any uses or disclosures made before my request is received. If I do not revoke this authorization, it will automatically expire in 90 days.

I understand that I am not legally obligated to sign this authorization and that TriMet will not refuse to accept my application for LIFT eligibility based on my refusal to sign this authorization. I also understand that if TriMet is unable to obtain information necessary to determine my disability or health condition and how the disability or health condition limits or prevents my use of regular bus and/or MAX services, my application for LIFT eligibility may not be processed or may be denied.

I understand that the information used or disclosed pursuant to this authorization may be subject to re-disclosure and no longer be legally protected. However, I also understand that federal or state lay may restrict redisclosure of HIV/AIDS information, mental health information, genetic information and drug/alcohol information.

I understand that by signing this statement I am authorizing TriMet to provide a copy of this statement to the above listed professional for the purposes of compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

_________________________________________________

__________________________

Signature of applicant or legal representative

Date

Applicant’s Date of Birth _____________________________

 
Click for Lift Eligibility File

File Breakdown

Fact Name Details
Eligibility Criteria To qualify for the LIFT service, applicants must have a disabling health condition that prevents them from using regular public transportation.
Governing Law The LIFT service operates under the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law.
Application Process Applicants must submit a completed application and a signed Medical Release Form, followed by an in-person interview and possibly a functional assessment.
Types of Eligibility Eligibility may be unconditional, conditional, or temporary, depending on the individual's needs and circumstances.
Notification Timeline Applicants will receive a notification of their eligibility determination by letter within 21 days after completing the evaluation process.
Appeals Process If an applicant disagrees with the eligibility decision, they can request an appeal within 65 days of the initial determination.
Transportation to Evaluation TriMet provides transportation to and from the eligibility evaluation at no charge if needed, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.

Guide to Using Lift Eligibility

Filling out the Lift Eligibility form is a crucial step in the process of obtaining paratransit services. After submitting the form, applicants will undergo a thorough evaluation to determine their eligibility based on their individual needs and capabilities. Following these instructions carefully will help ensure that the application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

  1. Begin by reading the enclosed brochure about LIFT Eligibility and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to understand the requirements.
  2. Fill out all personal information in Part A of the application. This includes your name, address, phone number, email, and preferred method of contact.
  3. Answer all questions in the application completely and accurately. Make sure not to leave any sections blank.
  4. In Part F on Page 3, sign the application. Remember, incomplete or unsigned applications may be returned.
  5. Complete and sign the attached Medical Release Form located at the end of the application. This form is essential for TriMet to confirm your disability with your health professional.
  6. Return the completed application using the enclosed self-addressed envelope or mail it to the TriMet LIFT Transit Mobility Center at 515 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209. Alternatively, you can fax the application to LIFT Eligibility at 503-962-8229.
  7. After your application is reviewed, expect a phone call from LIFT staff to schedule your in-person evaluation appointment.

Once the application is submitted, the next steps will involve an evaluation process that includes an interview and possibly a functional ability assessment. This is designed to assess your travel capabilities and determine the best mobility options available to you.

Get Answers on Lift Eligibility

1. Who is eligible for the LIFT service?

The TriMet LIFT service is designed for individuals who meet specific criteria under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To be eligible, a person must have a disabling health condition that prevents them from using regular bus or MAX services independently, either some or all of the time. It’s important to note that age, a disability diagnosis alone, or personal finances do not determine eligibility.

2. What is the process for determining eligibility?

Eligibility is determined through a series of steps:

  1. Submission of a completed application and signed Medical Release Form.
  2. Professional verification of the applicant's disability and abilities.
  3. An in-person interview with a TriMet LIFT Eligibility Coordinator.
  4. A functional and/or cognitive assessment, if necessary.
During the interview, the coordinator will discuss your travel abilities in detail to identify the best mobility options for you.

3. What happens during the in-person interview?

The interview lasts up to 30 minutes. The Eligibility Coordinator will review your application and discuss your travel abilities and limitations. If needed, they may also determine whether a functional ability assessment is required. If you need a non-English interpreter, you should indicate this on your application form.

4. What is the functional ability assessment?

This assessment evaluates your ability to use fixed-route services. It includes a simulated course that tests skills like balance, strength, and coordination. You may also need to complete a short trip on a bus or MAX. If you have cognitive disabilities, the Functional Assessment of Cognitive Transit Skills (FACTS) may be administered to assess your transit skills using a photo-based tool.

5. What should I bring to the evaluation?

It’s essential to bring any mobility equipment you use, such as a walker or cane. If you require personal care assistance, ensure someone accompanies you. You may also want to bring a light snack and any medications you need.

6. How will I know if I am eligible?

You will receive a notification letter within 21 days after your evaluation. If you are deemed eligible, the letter will include a LIFT Rider’s Guide with information on how to use the service. If you have questions about the decision, you can contact your LIFT Eligibility Coordinator.

7. What if I disagree with the eligibility determination?

If you are not satisfied with the eligibility decision, you can request an appeal. This must be done within 65 days from the date of the initial determination. Instructions on how to file an appeal will be included in your eligibility determination letter.

8. How do I complete the application?

To complete the application, answer all questions thoroughly and sign in the designated area. Ensure the Medical Release Form is also signed. Incomplete applications may be returned. Once completed, you can return the application via mail or fax. After review, LIFT staff will contact you to schedule your evaluation appointment.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Lift Eligibility form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can delay their application. One frequent error is not answering all questions completely. It’s essential to provide thorough and accurate information. Leaving questions blank or providing vague answers can lead to an incomplete application, which may be returned. Take your time and ensure every section is filled out to the best of your ability.

Another mistake often seen is failing to sign the application in the designated area. The form includes a specific section where your signature is required. If you forget to sign, your application may be delayed or returned. Always double-check that you’ve signed where necessary before submitting your form.

Many applicants overlook the importance of the Medical Release Form. This form must be completed and signed as part of your application. Some people mistakenly believe that they need to obtain a signature from their health professional. In reality, this is not required at the application stage. Instead, TriMet will reach out to your health professional directly. However, if the Medical Release Form is incomplete or unsigned, it may also result in your application being returned.

Lastly, applicants sometimes forget to provide their preferred method of contact. This detail is crucial as it allows TriMet to communicate effectively with you about your application status and any next steps. Whether you prefer phone calls, emails, or other methods, make sure to indicate your choice clearly. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can help ensure a smoother application process for Lift Eligibility.

Documents used along the form

When applying for the LIFT service, several other forms and documents may be required to ensure a smooth and complete application process. Below is a list of common documents that often accompany the Lift Eligibility form, each serving a specific purpose.

  • Medical Release Form: This form allows TriMet to contact your healthcare provider to verify your disability. It is essential for confirming your eligibility based on your health condition.
  • Application for TriMet LIFT Paratransit Service: This is the main application form where you provide personal information and details about your transportation needs. It must be completed thoroughly to avoid delays.
  • Eligibility Determination Letter: After your evaluation, this letter informs you of your eligibility status for LIFT services. It will be sent within 21 days of your assessment.
  • LIFT Rider’s Guide: If you are deemed eligible, this guide provides essential information about using the LIFT service, including scheduling rides and understanding the rules.
  • Functional Ability Assessment Results: If you undergo a functional assessment, the results will help determine your ability to use fixed-route services and any conditions that may apply.
  • Appeals Request Form: If you disagree with your eligibility determination, this form allows you to formally request an appeal within 65 days of receiving your eligibility letter.
  • Emergency Contact Information: This section of the application requests details about someone who can be contacted in case of an emergency during your use of LIFT services.
  • Interpreter Request Form: If you need language assistance during your interview, this form ensures that a qualified interpreter will be provided at no cost to you.
  • Personal Care Assistance Agreement: If you require assistance with personal care during your evaluation, this agreement outlines the need for a caregiver to accompany you.

Having these documents ready can streamline the application process and help ensure that you receive the services you need without unnecessary delays. Make sure to review each requirement carefully before submitting your application.

Similar forms

The Lift Eligibility form is similar to several other documents that serve a similar purpose in determining eligibility for services. Here are five documents that share similarities:

  • Medicaid Application Form: This form assesses eligibility for Medicaid services based on health conditions and income levels, similar to how the Lift Eligibility form evaluates disabilities and functional abilities.
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Application: Like the Lift Eligibility form, this application requires detailed information about a person's disability and how it affects their daily life and ability to work.
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Application: This form determines eligibility for food assistance based on financial and personal circumstances, paralleling the Lift Eligibility form's focus on personal conditions affecting transportation.
  • Accessible Parking Permit Application: This document evaluates a person's mobility limitations to grant parking privileges, similar to how the Lift Eligibility form assesses travel capabilities due to disabilities.
  • Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation Claim: This claim requires documentation of a veteran's service-related disabilities, much like the Lift Eligibility form requires proof of disabilities that affect transportation use.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Lift Eligibility form, it is important to be thorough and accurate. Here are four key things to keep in mind, including both what you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do answer all questions completely. Ensure that every section of the form is filled out to the best of your ability. Incomplete applications may be returned.
  • Do sign the application. Make sure to sign in Part F on Page 3. An unsigned application cannot be processed.
  • Don't forget to include the Medical Release Form. This form must be completed and signed as well. Remember, this is not a request for medical records but a way for TriMet to confirm your disability.
  • Don't submit the application without reviewing it. Double-check for any errors or omissions before mailing it in or faxing it to ensure a smooth process.

By following these guidelines, applicants can help facilitate a more efficient review process and increase the likelihood of a successful eligibility determination.

Misconceptions

Understanding the LIFT Eligibility form is crucial for those seeking paratransit services. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here’s a list of nine common misunderstandings about the LIFT Eligibility process, along with clarifications for each.

  1. Eligibility is based solely on age. Many believe that age determines eligibility for LIFT services. However, eligibility is based on the presence of a disabling health condition and its impact on the ability to use regular public transportation, not age alone.
  2. A medical diagnosis guarantees eligibility. Some applicants think that simply having a medical diagnosis will qualify them for LIFT services. In reality, the decision is based on how that diagnosis affects the individual's ability to use TriMet's regular bus and MAX services.
  3. LIFT service is available everywhere. It’s a common misconception that LIFT services are available in all areas. The eligibility is not based on the lack of service in a specific location but rather on individual functional abilities.
  4. Inability to drive qualifies for LIFT. Many assume that not being able to drive automatically makes them eligible. However, eligibility is determined by functional limitations related to disabilities, not just the inability to drive.
  5. Personal finances affect eligibility. Some individuals think that their financial situation plays a role in determining LIFT eligibility. This is incorrect. Financial status is not a factor in the eligibility process.
  6. All applicants must undergo a functional assessment. It is a misconception that every applicant will need to complete a functional ability assessment. The need for this assessment is determined by the LIFT Eligibility Coordinator during the interview.
  7. Eligibility results are immediate. Some people expect to receive eligibility results right after their evaluation. In fact, applicants will be notified by letter within 21 days after the evaluation process is complete.
  8. Appeals are not allowed. A common misunderstanding is that once a decision is made, it cannot be challenged. Applicants who disagree with their eligibility determination can request an appeal within 65 days of the initial decision.
  9. Assistance is provided during the evaluation. Many believe that TriMet staff will assist with personal care during the evaluation. However, applicants requiring personal care assistance must bring someone to help them, as TriMet staff are not trained to provide such assistance.

By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can better navigate the LIFT Eligibility process and ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities.

Key takeaways

Understanding the Lift Eligibility form is essential for a smooth application process. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for LIFT service, you must have a disabling health condition that prevents you from using regular bus or MAX services independently.
  • Application Components: Complete the application thoroughly, ensuring all sections are answered. An incomplete application may be returned.
  • Medical Release Form: Sign the Medical Release Form included with the application. This allows TriMet to verify your disability with your health professional.
  • Interview Process: An in-person interview with a TriMet LIFT Eligibility Coordinator will take place. This interview lasts up to 30 minutes and helps assess your travel abilities.
  • Functional Ability Assessment: You may undergo an assessment to evaluate your ability to use fixed-route services. This includes a simulated course and possibly a short trip on a bus or MAX.
  • Transportation to Evaluation: TriMet provides free transportation to and from your evaluation if needed. The evaluation occurs at the TriMet Transit Mobility Center.
  • Notification of Eligibility: You will receive a letter within 21 days of your evaluation, informing you of your eligibility status and providing further information.
  • Appeals Process: If you disagree with the eligibility decision, you can request an appeal within 65 days. Instructions for this process will be included in your eligibility letter.

By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the Lift Eligibility form more effectively and ensure that your application is processed without unnecessary delays.