A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document where you appoint someone to represent you if something happens to you. You give them the authority to act on your behalf. A POA is useful if you need help managing your finances, making medical decisions, or if you want to protect yourself and your family in case anything bad happens to you.
Also referred to as a Durable General Power of Attorney, this is a legal document where a person gives another person authority to act on his/her behalf. In simple terms, a POA allows you to designate someone else to handle some of your affairs. These legal forms are essential for appointing the right person to manage your affairs.
Why Make A Power of Attorney (POA)?
There are many reasons why you might need a POA.
- If you have any type of disability, you may be in need for help with handling your financial matters.
- If you get sick or injured, you may need someone to manage your estate.
- If you become incapacitated, you may need someone who can legally take care of your children or property.
The list goes on.
Who Should Be Your Agent?
This is an important legal document that creates the authority for someone else to act on your behalf under specified conditions. The person who holds a POA is called the principal. A POA may be granted by a court order or it may arise from a contract between two parties. In either case, both the principal and agent have certain obligations based upon the terms of the agreement.
The best candidates for your agent are people who know you well and whom you trust. Someone who lives nearby is preferable so they can visit you regularly.
Ideally, your agent for power of attorney should be someone who shares similar values to yours.
Also, choose someone who is not afraid to ask questions about what you are doing. He or she should not be judgmental or critical.
How to Make a Power of Attorney?
You can use a simple online form to create your POA.
- Start by choosing your agent(s). Choose at least two people, like close friends or relatives.
- Next, write down the specific powers you want your agent to carry out on your behalf. These could include paying bills, selling your personal items, giving your child money, and taking care of your pets.
- Finally, sign and date the document. Keep in mind that without the signatures of principal, agent and witness, this kind of a document will not be regarded as valid in a court of law.
There are several ways to find a power of attorney document. One way is to get it from a local Court. Another method is to conduct a search online. It is possible for you to get a free power of attorney form online at any of the websites that have legal documents and forms available easily to be downloaded and customized for individual use. You can use any of these for your own requirements.