I need support with my decision

Resources on this page are designed for people who can make some but not all decisions on their own. For example, you may be able to make all of your own decisions but choose to give someone you trust the authority to help you make decisions, or make decisions for you. 

Below are resources that can help you select certain trusted advisors such as family members, friends, or support professionals to help you make certain decisions. You choose the support or combination of supports that work for you.

Finding the right combination of support is the goal.

Keep in mind this important information: On this site, supported decision-making refers to the idea that a person has the right to make decisions to the full extent of their capacity, even as they get needed support. Capacity means you can understand the benefits, risks and decisions presented. You can also share which decision you choose.  If you are not sure whether you have capacity, remember you retain the right to make decisions until a court has officially declared a lack of capacity.

Click on each item below for more information.

Power of Attorney (POA)

Gives someone else the right to do things like take care of your money or make legal decisions for you.

Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)

Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) allows you to choose someone else to make certain decisions for you and it keeps working even if you cannot make decisions for yourself anymore.

Representative Payee

A person who manages your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) check.

ABLE Account

A savings program that you can use to pay for disability-related expenses.

Special Needs Trust

Legal plan with someone you trust to protect the assets and money of a person with a disability.

Will

Documents that explain what you want to happen after you die.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. No recipients of content from this site, clients or otherwise, should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in the site without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an attorney licensed in the recipient’s state. The content of this website contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments, verdicts or settlements. The Tennessee Center for Decision-Making Support expressly disclaims all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this website.