How is a guardianship different from government benefits?

A guardianship is a legal relationship in which a court-appointed adult, referred to as the guardian, is responsible for caring for and making decisions on behalf of a minor or disabled adult, referred to as the ward. Government benefits are tangible resources such as healthcare, housing, food, or financial assistance that are available to all citizens or residents and are provided by the government. The key distinction between a guardianship and government benefits is that a guardianship is a legal relationship which includes authority to make decisions and administer resources on behalf of the ward, whereas government benefits are resources that are available to all citizens that are managed by the individual. In Georgia, guardians are typically appointed to act as a fiduciary for individuals who are unable to manage their own finances or legal affairs due to being a minor or having a disability. The guardian is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the ward and managing their finances and assets. In contrast, government benefits are resources available to all residents regardless of ability to manage their own legal or financial affairs. These resources are managed at the individual’s discretion, and are not typically managed by a guardian. In summary, a guardianship is a legal relationship between a court-appointed adult and a minor or disabled adult in which the guardian is responsible for making decisions and managing resources on behalf of the ward. Government benefits are tangible resources available to all citizens that are managed by the individual.

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