When you’re choosing a power of attorney template to use, there are several things you need to look for. Here are some simple tips to help you choose the right one.
You can’t use the same power of attorney template for everything
Power of attorney (POA) documents will differ depending on their purpose. For example, a general POA form is not going to look the same as a health care POA. Before you create yours, make sure you’re using a template that’s appropriate for your situation. Additionally, the requirements for a POA vary from state to state – so be sure to use one tailored for Arizona’s legal requirements.
Types of POA documents
A general POA is used to give someone else the right to make decisions on your behalf for financial, property, and business decisions.
A health care POA allows your agent to make only health care decisions on your behalf.
A special POA makes it possible for your agent to make decisions for you in very specific situations. For example, during a one-time sale of property.
A parental POA can be used to give someone the temporary right to make choices regarding your children.
A revocation of POA document is used to cancel a previously issued POA.
It’s also important to take note of the difference between a Durable Power of Attorney and one that is not. If it is “durable”, this means it only takes effect if you are unable to make decisions for yourself (for example, if you are unconscious or otherwise incapacitated). Additionally, “durable” ones will not have an expiration date and can only be canceled if you die or revoke them.
More tips for ensuring your power of attorney document template is valid
The document should have space for it to be notarized and signed by all parties involved. It should also contain the following information:
- name, address, and birthdate of yourself and the agent to whom you are granting authority to act on your behalf
- specification of the type of powers you are granting to your agent
- the range of dates that the POA is to be in effect
- terms of revocation
Many people think all POAs need to be filed in court. In reality, this isn’t the case. All you need to do is make sure the agent(s) have an original that they can present to the relevant authorities if they need to make decisions on your behalf.
If you have questions about your power of attorney template
Since filling out this kind of document isn’t an everyday task for most people, it’s not unusual to run into questions. If you have a complicated case, a lawyer may be required. However, if yours is a simple matter, it’s worth considering the more affordable help of a legal document preparer.
