Your one-stop shop for free, confidential help with Article 81 Guardianship in New York.
The Guardianship Prevention and Support Helpline provides information and referrals to anyone—whether you’re a caregiver, concerned family member, or professional—seeking information on Article 81 guardianship and its alternatives.
Please Note: We do not provide legal representation or legal advice. We cannot assist with completing court forms. Contacting the Helpline does NOT establish an attorney-client relationship.
How we help
-
Understand how the guardianship process works
-
Navigate court procedures and documents
-
Explore options for supporting a loved one
-
Learn about less restrictive alternatives such as:
-
Powers of attorney and health care proxies
-
Social and community services
-
Financial management supports
-
-
Address concerns about an existing guardian
-
Connect with trusted specialized organizations and services
Have you considered other options?
- Guardianship is a serious legal tool that can interfere with a person's independence. It should be treated as the last option.
- A person may need a guardian if they are at risk of harm because they can no longer provide for their needs and do not recognize that they need help.
- Only a judge can appoint a guardian. This requires filing papers and a hearing in court.
- An individual or agency may be appointed to make personal and/or financial decisions for a person in need. In New York, a guardian’s powers are limited to meet the individual's needs.
- Powers can be added or removed. If a guardianship is no longer necessary, a request can be to the court for the guardianship to end.
Important Information
-
This Helpline is not an emergency service. For emergencies, call 911.
-
Project Guardianship can only serve as a guardian if appointed by a New York State court. We do not accept direct requests for guardianship through the Helpline.
-
Your privacy matters: we do not share or sell personal information.
Contact Us
Tel: (718) 750‑8474
Email: helpline@projectguardianship.org
Live Hours: Monday-Friday, 10AM-1PM (closed on all federal holidays)
If we are unavailable when you call, please leave a voicemail. You may also reach out anytime by email or through our web form below. We aim to respond within two business days, although response times may vary depending on volume.
LANGUAGE ACCESS
For services in languages other than English, please reach out by email or web form. In your message, let us know if you would like to communicate in writing or use a phone-based interpreter.
Para servicios en idiomas distintos del inglés, póngase en contacto con nosotros por correo electrónico o formulario web. En su mensaje, indíquenos si desea comunicarse por escrito o mediante un intérprete telefónico.
>> Download Flyer (English)
>> Descargar Folleto (en Español)
