Resource Link

https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/library/collection/f-02377

Resource Description

Introduction: This document is a legal form from Wisconsin that helps people with disabilities make their own choices. The form is called a Supported Decision-Making Agreement. It lets someone pick trusted helpers who can assist them with decisions, while keeping their right to make final choices. The form comes in many languages to help more people use it.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: The form lets someone pick one or more trusted people to be their helpers. These helpers can assist with choices about health, money, housing, food, clothes, and other needs. The person filling out the form stays in control of all decisions. Their helpers cannot make choices for them - they can only help explain things and share information. Here's how the help works: A helper might get medical records, explain what different choices mean in simple words, or make sure doctors and others listen to what the person wants. But the helper must respect the person's choices, even if they disagree. The form needs to be signed by both the person and their helpers. It also needs two adult witnesses or a notary to make it official. Once signed, the agreement starts working right away. It keeps working until a set end date or until someone decides to stop it. This agreement is different from other legal forms like guardianship or power of attorney. Those forms give control to someone else. This form keeps the power with the person who needs help. They stay in charge of their own life. The agreement can be changed to fit what each person needs. Someone might want help with doctor visits but not with money. Or they might want one helper for health choices and a different helper for housing. The form lets people set it up in the way that works best for them. This agreement helps people with disabilities stay independent while getting the support they need. It shows respect for their rights and helps them make good choices about their lives.