How is a guardianship different from government benefits?

A guardianship is a legal arrangement that gives a person or institution the legal authority to care for another person or their property. Guardianships are often used for people who are unable to care for themselves, such as minors or adults with mental disabilities. Government benefits, on the other hand, are typically meant to provide financial assistance to those who are unable to provide for themselves due to illness, disability, or other economic hardship. A guardianship is a form of protection for the individual, not a form of assistance. The guardian is responsible for making decisions regarding the ward’s health, education, and safety, and is also responsible for ensuring the ward’s well-being. Government benefits, on the other hand, are designed to provide a certain level of financial assistance to those who need it, and can come in the form of Social Security, disability benefits, and more. In Virginia, a person can become a guardian of an individual in a number of ways. The court appoints guardians in the case of a minor, or of an adult who is deemed to be legally incapable of making decisions on their own. A guardian may also be appointed by a voluntary petition that is filed by a family member or other interested party. In summary, a guardianship is meant to provide protection to the ward and to ensure that their best interests are taken into account when decisions are made. Government benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to those in need, and can provide a cushion against economic hardship.

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