What is the most appropriate action if a supported individual mentions potential misuse of funds by their guardian?

Choosing to contact your agency's designated investigator is the most appropriate action in this scenario. When an individual under support raises concerns about potential misuse of funds by their guardian, it is essential to address these allegations with the utmost seriousness and confidentiality. An agency's designated investigator is trained to handle such sensitive situations, ensuring that the claims are investigated properly and that the rights and wellbeing of the supported individual are prioritized.

This route ensures that there is a formal process in place for addressing allegations of misuse, which protects the individual and allows for the collection of accurate information. It also helps maintain a clear boundary between personal engagement and professional responsibility, avoiding any potential conflicts of interest that could arise from informal discussions with the guardian.

In contrast, calling 911 could be an overreaction unless immediate danger is present, and filing an incident report, while potentially useful, may not be the best first step in a situation where immediate investigation by a trained professional is warranted. Additionally, calling the guardian to verify the claims could compromise the supported individual's safety and the integrity of the investigation, as it might alert the guardian before a formal inquiry begins.