How to Arrange a Power of Attorney
- 1). Decide who you would like to appoint as your "agent" or "attorney-in-fact." This person should be someone you trust, and be "of sound mind," meaning they have the ability to reason and make logical decisions on your behalf. (It is best to discuss your wishes with this person before you arrange the power of attorney.)
- 2). Decide what kind of power of attorney you wish to arrange. You may choose from many options, including a general power of attorney; a special or limited power of attorney; a health-care power of attorney; or a durable power of attorney.
- 3). Find a physician to certify that you are of sound mind and able to understand the power of attorney you are arranging, if there is a question as to your own mental competence.
- 4). Use one of the many legal resources to find a sample power of attorney form (see Resources below).
- 5). Edit the power of attorney form to reflect your personal information and the identity of your chosen "agent" or "attorney-in-fact."
- 6). Print the edited power of attorney form.
- 7). Sign and date the power of attorney.
- 8). Instruct your "agent" or "attorney-in-fact" to sign and date the power of attorney as well.
- 9). If you require a physician to certify your mental competence, have the physician sign and date his certification, then attach it to your power of attorney.
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If you choose to have a notary present while you execute the power of attorney, have the notary sign and date the document, then imprint it or stamp it with the notary seal. - 11
Provide a copy of the power of attorney to your "agent" or "attorney-in-fact" to use if she has to prove that you have authorized her to make decisions on your behalf. - 12
Provide a copy of your power of attorney to any friends, relatives, medical providers or anyone else who needs to be aware of your wishes. - 13
If your power of attorney relates to real estate in any way, file a copy of the power of attorney with the local deed office.
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