How to Properly Complete the Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form

Being appointed as a guardian comes with long-term responsibilities that extend far beyond the initial court proceedings. You’re entrusted with ensuring the ongoing safety, care, and dignity of someone who can no longer make decisions independently. Part of honoring that role involves keeping the court informed of your actions and the ward’s well-being. The annual report isn’t just a form, it’s a formal way of demonstrating your continued commitment and transparency as a guardian.

Many first-time guardians are surprised by how structured the reporting process is. The court isn’t asking for perfection, but it does expect clarity, honesty, and regular updates. Whether you’re caring for an elderly relative, an adult with disabilities, or a minor without parents, understanding how and when to report makes a real difference. It not only helps protect the ward but also protects you from legal consequences down the line.

To help you stay on track and avoid any unnecessary stress, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form, from who must file it to what details must be included, how to submit it properly, and what to expect if there’s a delay.

• What This Annual Report Is and Why It’s Required
• Who Needs to File It Each Year
• Information You’ll Need to Complete the Form
• Where to Get a Copy of the Report Form
• Filing Options: Online, In Person, or By Mail
• Is There a Filing Fee?
• When and How Often You Must Submit It
• What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
• How to Make the Process Easier on Yourself
• Reporting Changes Before the Annual Due Date

What This Annual Report Is and Why It’s Required

The Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form is a required document that you, as a court-appointed guardian, must file each year to update the court about the condition and care of the person under guardianship, known as the ward. This form helps the court ensure that the ward’s best interests are being met and that you’re fulfilling your responsibilities correctly.

The requirement to submit an annual report is based on Texas Estates Code § 1163.101. If you are a guardian of the person, not of the estate, this form will focus on the ward’s living conditions, medical status, and your ongoing role in their care.

Failure to file the report on time can result in penalties, including removal from your position as guardian or additional hearings.

Who Needs to File It Each Year

If you’ve been appointed guardian of the person, you must submit the annual report. This is true whether the ward is a minor or an adult with disabilities. Even if there have been no changes over the past year, the form must still be completed and filed.

You must file the report within 60 days after the anniversary of your appointment each year. If you are both guardian of the person and the estate, you may have to file two different reports unless the court has combined those duties in a single document.

Information You’ll Need to Complete the Form

To complete the form accurately, gather the following details:

• Guardian’s information: Your name, current address, and contact details.
• Ward’s current residence: Full address and type of facility or home.
• Medical and healthcare updates: List of doctors seen in the past year, diagnoses, medications, and hospitalizations.
• Living conditions: Description of the ward’s physical and emotional state, any changes in residence, or modifications in daily care.
• Educational or employment status: If applicable, include school attendance or work involvement.
• Social involvement: How often you visit the ward, their community or family interactions.
• Any concerns or changes: New medical conditions, changes in care needs, or safety issues.

The form also includes an oath and verification that must be signed before a notary public or certified by the court clerk, depending on local requirements.

Where to Get a Copy of the Report Form

You can download the form directly from your county probate court’s website or request it in person from the probate clerk. Some counties provide editable PDFs, while others issue a paper version.

There is also a statewide standard version available through the Office of Court Administration of Texas and many legal aid websites.

Always check whether your local court requires any additional attachments or uses a custom version of the form.

Filing Options: Online, In Person, or By Mail

Filing methods vary by county, but they typically include the following options:

1. In person: Submit the signed and notarized report to the probate clerk.
2. By mail: Send the completed form to the court that issued the guardianship.
3. Online: Some counties accept electronic filing through a court portal or eFileTexas system.

If you’re unsure, contact your county probate court for instructions.

You must file on or before the 60th day after the anniversary date of your guardianship appointment. Late submissions can trigger a court review and, in some cases, removal proceedings.

Is There a Filing Fee?

Filing the Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form is usually free for guardians of the person. However, some counties may charge a small administrative fee or require you to pay for notarization if done at the courthouse.

If you are a guardian of the estate as well, the financial reports may require an audit or review fee depending on the value of the estate under management.

When and How Often You Must Submit It

You must file the report once every 12 months. The due date is based on the anniversary of your appointment. This annual requirement continues each year for as long as the guardianship remains in place.

The court may also request interim reports if there are major changes in the ward’s living situation, medical condition, or guardianship status.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline

Missing your filing deadline has serious consequences. The court may:

• Issue a notice of non-compliance
• Set a hearing to determine the reason for the delay
• Fine you or remove you as guardian
• Suspend your powers until you comply

Judges take the reporting obligation seriously because it protects the ward. Failing to file suggests you may not be actively involved in the ward’s care, even if that’s not the case.

Some courts allow short extensions if you request them in writing before the deadline. Be prepared to explain the delay and provide an estimated filing date.

How to Make the Process Easier on Yourself

• Mark your calendar with a reminder a month before your due date.
• Keep records year-round about visits, medical appointments, and changes in the ward’s condition.
• Use a checklist based on the form’s sections so nothing is missed.
• Ask the court clerk if your county provides sample reports or guidance sheets.

If you’re unsure how to fill out certain parts of the form, some counties have guardianship coordinators who can answer questions or point you to resources.

Reporting Changes Before the Annual Due Date

If something major happens before the annual report is due—such as the ward being hospitalized, moved to a different home, or passing away—you should notify the court as soon as possible. You may need to submit a Notice of Change in Circumstances or file a motion depending on what occurred.

These reports are separate from the annual form but help the court keep current information on file. Submitting this update doesn’t remove your obligation to complete the annual report unless the guardianship is formally closed by court order.

Conclusion

The Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form is a yearly requirement that helps the court confirm the safety and well-being of the ward under your care. Filing it completely and on time shows you’re meeting your responsibilities and gives the court a clear picture of the ward’s living situation and medical condition.

To stay compliant, keep organized records throughout the year, mark your deadlines, and reach out to your local probate court if you have questions. The process may feel tedious at first, but it becomes easier with preparation and consistency.

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FAQs About the Texas Guardianship Annual Report Form