How to Appeal a Denied SCAT Paratransit Application

What to have in front of you

• Complete denial letter and envelope showing when it arrived
• Current SCAT appeal form
• Copy of the original application
• Provider statement addressing why the disability prevents fixed-route use
• Specific examples involving distance, terrain, transfers, weather, cognition, communication, or inaccessible stops
• Proof the appeal was submitted on time

What to say when someone answers

“I received an ADA eligibility denial dated [date]. Please confirm the appeal deadline, where to send it, how to request a hearing or accommodation, and whether any transportation is available while the appeal is pending.”

Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.

Do this in order

1. 1

   Calendar the deadline printed in the denial letter and use the current SCAT form.

2. 2

   Quote the exact denial reason and answer it with functional facts. A diagnosis alone may not explain why fixed-route service cannot be used.

3. 3

   Ask the provider to address the barrier between the origin, bus stop, vehicle, transfer, and destination.

4. 4

   Submit by a trackable method and keep the full packet and confirmation.

What happens next

SCAT’s application page says a denial letter explains the appeal process. The appeal reviews eligibility or conditions; the decision may depend on the original record plus new functional evidence and any hearing information.