Financial Guidance

A step-by-step guide to managing your loved one's finances with confidence and care

Getting Started with Financial Caregiving
Managing someone else's finances can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the process into manageable steps.

When you take on the responsibility of managing a loved one's finances, you're not just handling money—you're helping maintain their dignity, independence, and quality of life. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, from recognizing when it's time to step in to protecting against financial exploitation.

Before you begin:

  • Approach the situation with empathy and respect
  • Gather support from other family members when possible
  • Prepare to be patient—this is a process, not a one-time conversation
  • Remember that your goal is to help, not take control

The Financial Caregiving Journey

Recognizing When It's Time to Step In
Identifying the signs that your loved one might need help with financial management

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Unpaid bills piling up or notices of late payments
  • Unusual or excessive spending patterns
  • Confusion about financial matters or recent transactions
  • Difficulty writing checks or managing online accounts
  • Becoming victim to scams or financial exploitation

First steps to take:

  1. Observe patterns without being intrusive
  2. Document specific concerns with examples
  3. Consult with other family members
  4. Consider a professional assessment if cognitive decline is suspected

Downloadable Tools

Financial Inventory Worksheet

A comprehensive template to document all financial accounts, income sources, expenses, and assets.

Financial Protection Checklist

Step-by-step guide to protect your loved one from financial scams and exploitation.

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