Guardian of the Estate

Position Summary

The Corporate Guardian – Guardian of the Estate is responsible for the comprehensive management of financial affairs for adults adjudicated incompetent or incapacitated under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 54. This fiduciary role ensures that all assets, income, and financial obligations are managed prudently, ethically, and in strict compliance with court orders, statutory requirements, and applicable Wisconsin and federal laws.

The position requires proactive coordination with financial institutions, service providers, legal professionals, and government agencies, including participation in in-person and off-site meetings as necessary to effectively carry out the guardian’s duties and protect the ward’s financial interests.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Guardian of the Estate — Core Responsibilities

• Gain control of the ward’s financial assets and maintain them in properly titled accounts; commingling funds is strictly prohibited.
• Manage Financial Assets: Oversee all financial matters related to the ward’s estate, including bank accounts, investments, and real estate, ensuring assets are protected and properly maintained.
• Pay Bills and Expenses: Pay all necessary expenses, including housing, medical costs, and personal needs. Prioritize payments based on available funds and ensure clients receive needed goods and services in a timely manner.
• File Taxes: File all required tax returns and ensure ongoing compliance with state and federal tax obligations.
• Make Financial Decisions: Make financial decisions on behalf of the ward, including asset management, investments, and benefit applications, always acting in the ward’s best interest.
• Develop and maintain budgets to ensure financial stability and sustainability of the ward’s estate.

Administrative & Court Reporting

• File a verified Inventory within three (3) months of appointment identifying all estate assets.
• Submit Annual Estate Reports detailing income, assets, expenditures, and services provided.
• Sale of real estate
• Expenditure of principal assets
• Payment of fees from principal
• Estate planning or asset transfers
• Prepare and submit required filings, including Petitions for Allowance, in accordance with court requirements.
• Ensure full compliance with Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 54 and all applicable legal and fiduciary standards.

Off-Site & Field Responsibilities

• Attend and participate in in-person meetings outside the office, including banks, court proceedings, service providers, and government agencies.
• Coordinate directly with financial institutions and vendors to manage accounts and resolve financial matters.
• Conduct site visits or asset reviews as necessary to ensure proper management of the ward’s estate.

Administrative & Financial Documentation

• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of all financial activity, including expenditures, receipts, and account balances.
• Ensure all records are organized, complete, and audit-ready.
• Respond promptly to court requests and inquiries.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional and ethical standards.

Legal & Ethical ObligationsFiduciary Duty

A Guardian of the Estate has a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the ward at all times. This includes:

• Placing the ward’s needs above all others
• Avoiding conflicts of interest
• Managing assets with the level of care a reasonable person would exercise

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience in financial management, accounting, social services, or a related field.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information professionally.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, human services, or related field.
• Experience with guardianship, fiduciary services, or case management.
• Familiarity with Medicaid, Social Security, and public benefit programs.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office work and regular off-site responsibilities.
• Travel to financial institutions, courts, and service providers (~25% ).
• Fast-paced environment requiring attention to detail and compliance.
• Exposure to complex financial and ethical situations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel within the service area.
• Ability to attend in-person meetings and complete site visits.
• Ability to lift and transport materials up to approximately 20 pounds.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or objectives required of employees in this role. Responsibilities and duties may change or be assigned at any time based on organizational needs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 403(b)
• Retirement plan
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

FLSA Classification

Non-Exempt — eligible for overtime under applicable wage and hour laws.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rock County Advocacy Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with federal and Wisconsin employment laws. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable law.

Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $24 - $28