Pennsylvania Guardian Handbook
Family/Lay Guardian Training Resource List Adapted from Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts' Family/Lay Guardian Training.
General Information
Office of Elder Justice in the Courts (OEJC): Educates judges, court staff, attorneys, guardians, the public, and others about the warning signs of elder abuse, and how to respond to suspected elder abuse. The OEJC also promotes best practices that address elder abuse and neglect, as well as guardianship and access to justice in the Commonwealth's courts. In addition to education and best practices, the OEJC actively fosters collaboration with other elder justice entities and branches of government to enhance elder Pennsylvania's ability to fully participate in legal proceedings. The OEJC can be reached by calling 717-231-3300. http://www.pacourts.us/judicial-administration/courtprograms/office-of-elder-justice-in-the-courts
Guardianship Tracking System (GTS): The Pennsylvania Guardianship Tracking System (https://ujsportal.pacourts.us/) is an online application that allows guardians of adult incapacitated persons to submit inventory and annual person and estate reports online. Payment of any associated fees is accepted at the time a filing is submitted and may be made with a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or ATM card. Upon the completion of a filing, it will be transmitted to the applicable court for processing. Contact the 1-877-227-2672 or email GTSAOPC@pacourts.us if you have questions about using GTS.
PA ABLE Account: A PA ABLE account gives individuals with qualified disabilities (eligible individuals), and their families and friends, a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses, while maintaining government benefits. Federal and state law authorized the creation of PA ABLE accounts. 1-855-529-2253 or www.PAABLE.gov
PA Department of Revenue Rent Rebate Application Forms: Homeowners or renters aged 65 or older, widows and widowers aged 60 or older, and permanently disabled individuals may be eligible for a rebate. Eligibility for this benefit is based upon annual income. Household income must not exceed $45,000 for homeowners and $15,000 for renters to qualify. Visit https://www.revenue.pa.gov/ to learn more about the program and complete an application if eligible.
Fact Sheet for Special Needs Trusts: A special needs trust is designed to protect financial assets for the benefit of a disabled person. A fact sheet on special needs trusts can be viewed at https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Other-Services/Documents/Casualty%20Recovery/Special%20Needs%20Trust%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf