Power of Attorney (POA)

What is a power of attorney? What are the reasons for having one? Where can you get a free POA form for Texas?

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone else to act on their behalf.

Reasons why someone might want to have a power of attorney

• Incapacity: If someone becomes incapacitated due to illness or injury, a power of attorney can allow a trusted person to make decisions on their behalf.
• Convenience: A power of attorney can be useful if someone cannot be present for a transaction or signing and needs someone else to act on their behalf.
• Travel: If someone is traveling and needs someone else to handle their affairs while they are away, a power of attorney can grant that authority.
• Estate planning: A power of attorney can be part of an estate plan, allowing someone to manage the principal’s financial affairs if they become unable to do so themselves.

In Texas, there are several types of Power of Attorney forms

• General Power of Attorney: This grants broad powers to an individual to handle business affairs, representation, and all real personal and property actions on another’s behalf. POA Texas Form Adobe.
• Medical Power of Attorney: This allows someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal if they become incapacitated.
• Statutory Durable Power of Attorney: This form designates an agent who is empowered to take certain actions regarding the principal’s property.
• Vehicle Power of Attorney: This form is for use when someone wishes to designate someone to handle vehicle-related matters on their behalf. 5.

Where can you get a free POA form for Texas?

Free power of attorney forms for Texas can be found online at websites such as PowerofAttorney.com 2 3, eForms 5, and FreeWill 6.

Can a Power of Attorney be notarized online?

Yes! However, the signer must be aware and willing to sign the POA. They must have a valid US ID or US Passport. If it is expired, then an online notarization cannot be done with a Texas Online Notary unless they have a Remote Online Notary Platform that allows for using a Credible Witness.