What is a Guardian?

A "Guardian of Property" is someone who is appointed to manage the financial affairs of a person who is mentally incapable of doing so for himself or herself. A Guardian may be appointed by the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) or by the court.

Duties and Powers of a Guardian of Property

This document explains what being a Guardian of Property involves, what things the Guardian is allowed to do and what steps must be taken by the Guardian to meet his or her obligations to the incapable person.

A Guide to the Substitute Decisions Act

A plain-language summary of the law and concepts behind making decisions on behalf of someone who is incapable. (PDF - 27 pages)

The Register of Guardians

This document describes the Register, which is a list of all Guardians in Ontario maintained by the OPGT.

How do I become a Guardian of Property?

Read Becoming a Guardian of Property

Some frequently asked questions for people who may wish to apply to be appointed as Guardian of Property for an incapable person.

Two forms are needed for your application to become a Guardian for someone whose financial decisions are currently being made by the OPGT.

Both the application forms must be filled in carefully, legibly, and with as much detail as possible, to avoid delays in processing your application. When properly completed they should clearly explain to the Public Guardian and Trustee how you plan to manage the financial affairs of your incapable relative.

Step 1: Print out and fill in the  Application to replace the Public Guardian and Trustee as Statutory Guardian of Property

This application is used if you wish to apply to replace the Public Guardian and Trustee (PGT), who is acting as Guardian of Property for someone who is mentally incapable.

Only certain people are eligible to apply to replace the PGT. Please contact the Client Representative for the incapable person. If you don't know who that is, contact the office. (PDF - 4 pages)

Step 2: Print out and fill in the  Management Plan

The management plan goes along with the application to be appointed as Guardian of Property for someone who is mentally incapable. (PDF - 9 pages)

Step 3: Submit both the Application Form and the Management Plan to the intake office

595 Bay Street
Suite 800
Toronto, ON
M5G 2M6

Looking for help filling out these forms?
Find clear instructions and sample applications in: Helpful hints in completing your application to replace the Public Guardian and Trustee as Statutory Guardian

How much will it cost me to apply?

See the list of fees that tells you how much it costs to have your application to replace the OPGT as a Statutory Guardian reviewed