What Is a Power of Attorney and How to Use It

Life can be very unpredictable. Sometimes in our lives, while making important decisions about money, health, property, and legal matters, we might need legal help, and that's where a power of attorney comes in handy. If a thought like this, “What is a power of attorney?”, “How can you use it?” and “Where can you find power of attorney forms?” come to your mind, then this guide is for you. In this blog, we will help you on how and where to get the best and durable power of attorney form and where you can use it.

Power of Attorney

Let's know more about WHAT IS A POWER OF ATTORNEY?

Power of attorney, or POA, is one of the most common legal documents. The simple meaning of this document is that it will give a person the right to act on behalf of another person. Talking about the person who is giving the power is known as the Principal, and on the other hand, the person who is receiving the power is known as an Agent.

When the agent receives the power of attorney, he or she has the power to take actions on behalf of the principal, like:

• Managing money or bank accounts 

• Paying bills 

• Signing legal documents 

• Making medical decisions (if the POA includes healthcare)

This is extremely useful if a person is ill, away from home, aging, or simply needs someone they trust to assist with important tasks.

Why Is the Power of Attorney Important?

Power of attorney is important when someone is not available or is out of the country, but he or she still want some things to get done. All they have to do is sign a POA and send it to someone whom they trust with their things, rest the agent will take care of it. Here are a few situations where a POA can help you:

• Medical emergencies: If you’re in the hospital and can’t speak, someone can make decisions for you.

• Travel: If you're out of the country, someone can handle things back home.

• Old age or illness: If your health changes, your agent can step in and help with bills, doctors, or legal papers.

• Business matters: If you run a business but can’t be present, your agent can sign papers or manage accounts.

Power of attorney can make things very easy for you and your family. If you’re out of the country and you need something done, you can just send a POA, and it’s done for you without any hassle. 

Different Types of Power of Attorney

Many people think there is only one Power of Attorney, which is wrong. There are multiple types of Power of Attorney. Here we will discuss a few major ones: 

How to Get Power of Attorney Forms?

It’s very simple, you don’t have to hire a lawyer or any special person like this to get a Power of Attorney. There are many online websites where you can find Power of Attorney forms very easily. Some of them are even free of cost.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Decide what kind of POA you need

2. Choose your agent.

3. Download the formFill out the form 

4. Sign the form 

Once the form is complete, give copies to your agent, family members, and your doctor (if it includes medical decisions).

Where to Find a Free Durable Power of Attorney Form

If you’re looking for a free durable power of attorney form, you’re in luck. Many websites offer free downloads. Just make sure you choose one that works in your state, because each state has different rules.

Here are a few trusted sources:

• LawDepot.com

• eForms.com

• RocketLawyer.com

• Your state’s official government website

• Betterestate

You can search online by typing “free durable power of attorney form [your state]” or Legal power of attorney on Google. Most forms come with easy instructions and examples.

When Should You Make a Power of Attorney?

You might think POA is only for older people, but it’s helpful at any age. Life is unpredictable. It’s better to be prepared than to wait for an emergency.

Here are some good times to create a POA:

• Before surgery or a major medical procedure

• Before traveling for a long time

• When making a will or estate plan

• If you’ve been diagnosed with a serious illness

• When you start a business or buy property

Having a power of attorney in place gives you peace of mind. You know someone you trust can help when needed.

Can You Cancel or Change a Power of Attorney?

Yes, you can change or cancel your power of attorney anytime, as long as you are mentally able to do so. To cancel a POA, you simply fill out a revocation of power of attorney form and give copies to everyone involved. If you want to choose a new agent, you can make a new POA form that replaces the old one. Always make sure your agent knows their job is serious. They must act in your best interest and follow the instructions in the POA form.

Tips for Using a Power of Attorney

Here are some simple tips to keep in mind before going for a power of attorney. It seems like a difficult thing, but it's not.

• Talk openly with your agent 

• Keep your POA form in a safe place

• Review your POA every few years.

• Be careful who you choose 

Conclusion 

You now have a basic understanding of what is power of attorney is and how it works. It’s an empowering service that allows someone you trust to assist you with difficult things like money, legal documents, or health care when you can no longer do so. There are many varieties of power of attorney forms, and a durable power of attorney form can be readily found online. Just be sure you get the right one for your situation, fill it out carefully, and sign it correctly. Making a power of attorney may seem like a big step, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.