Supported Decision-Making (SDM)

Supported Decision-Making means getting help to understand your choices while still making your own decisions. 

Since 2020, Minnesota law has recognized SDM as a less restrictive alternative to guardianship, and courts must consider SDM before appointing guardians.

Supported Decision-Making usually includes:

• Choosing Supporters - These are trusted people—like family, friends, or professionals—who help you understand information and share your decisions.
• Picking Areas for Support -You decide what you want help with, such as health care, money, school, or where you live.
• Getting Help - Supporters can:
  • Explain choices in simple ways
  • Talk about the pros and cons of choices
  • Help you share what you want
  • Make sure your wishes are respected
• Writing It Down (Optional) - Some people make a written plan that says who helps and how. This can make things easier with doctors, banks, or schools.
• You Make the Final Choice - Supporters help, but you are the decision-maker.

1. Who can use SDM? 
   Anyone 18 or older who wants help making decisions.
2. Can I pick my own supporters? 
   Yes. You choose who helps and what they help with (like health care, money, school).
3. Do I need a written agreement? 
   No. Some people have a written agreement, others do not. Having one can help institutions and people (such as doctors and banks) trust your supporters.
4. Can I still use other tools like Power of Attorney? 
   Yes. SDM can be used along with tools like Power of Attorney, advanced health care directives, and joint bank accounts.
5. What if I have a guardian? 
   Sometimes SDM can replace guardianship if a court agrees.
6. What decisions can SDM help with? 
   Almost anything, like health care, school, jobs, money, where you live, and voting. You decide which areas you’d like support.

Learn more about this topic at Healthcare Transition: Frequently Asked Questions

For more information on Supported Decision-Making:

• Disability Hub MN - Decision making
• Arc Guide to Decision Making - The Arc Minnesota
• Supported Decision-Making | National Resource Center
• Center for Excellence in Supported Decision Making | Volunteers of America Minnesota and Wisconsin