Legal Guardian's Rights To Financial Assistance

[barnett]

I live in the state of Texas. I was given legal gaurdianship of my grandchild almost 11 years ago as a single grandparent in another state. I have never received ANY assistance from either parent nor applied for any government assistance for medical, child care,food stamps,etc. Financial situations are ever-changing and assistance would be extremely helpful. If I apply for any help does this make me look like an unfit legal gaurdian and would it be necessary to involve either parent? I am not asking for child support as I know that would just reult in much fighting. I would welcome food stamps and Medicaid as I have no medical coverage and pay cash for all medical and dental needs for the child. There has been no contact from the father for years and the mother has been an in and out visitor for the past 11 years. If applying means more involvement with them I probably won't apply.

[aaron]

You should seek whatever government benefits you qualify to receive.

Note, however, that the state may follow that up by petitioning for child support.