How to apply for Tennessee Public Guardianship for the Elderly — Court-Appointed Conservator of Last Resort

Who it's for

Tennessee's Public Guardianship for the Elderly program serves as the court-appointed guardian (conservator) for adults 60 and older who cannot make decisions about their health or money because of physical or mental limitations, and who have no family member, friend, bank, or organization able and willing to serve. The program is available in all 95 counties through the local Area Agency on Aging and Disability. Some people pay a fee based on income or resources; people with low income or SSI pay nothing. Call 1-866-836-6678 to reach your AAAD.

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Tennessee Public Guardianship for the Elderly — Court-Appointed Conservator of Last Resort. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm that this is a last-resort program. It is for adults age 60 or older who cannot make decisions about health or money because of physical or mental limits, and who have no family member, friend, bank, or organization able and willing to serve.
2. Contact the local Area Agency on Aging and Disability to ask about the program. Apply online or call 1-866-836-6678 to reach the right office.
3. Explain the person’s situation and ask what information the local office needs. No required documents are listed here, so ask the office what to prepare.
4. Follow the instructions from the local office and complete the application process they give you.
5. Be ready for the court process. The public guardian cannot file the first court petition, and a court makes the final decision about appointing a conservator.

What to expect: After you apply, the local office will review the situation and explain the next steps. This program is only used when no suitable family member, friend, bank, or organization can serve, and the court decides whether to appoint the public guardian. There is no renewal listed. This program does not provide legal or financial advice.

Renewals

none