How to Get a Power of Attorney Letter
A Power of Attorney is a document allowing you, the Principal, to appoint someone else, Attorney-in-Fact, to act on your behalf on matters that you specifically indicate on the form you fill out. It can not be used as a document to appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. You will need a valid will indicating your preferences concerning your estate once you are deceased. Instances when you might need a Power of Attorney include, someone to sell, mortgage, exchange, lease or otherwise deal with real estate or land on your behalf and someone to control bank and financial interests for you.
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Instructions
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Choose an online source such as Legacy Writer or Law Depot to find the form for Power of Attorney. Complete an online interview by answering written questions to help you determine the exact form you will need and to actually prepare the form for printing.
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Print your Power of Attorney after completing it online or have it mailed to you. If you will be printing the document, leave five inches of blank space at the top of the form for the filing stamp if the form or letter must be filed with the County Clerk or Land Title Office. It will need to be filed if it affects real property. Some counties require more or less than 3 inches for their stamp.
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Print a certificate for witnesses to fill out acknowledging signing and the capacity of the Principal.
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Follow instructions for signing the Power of Attorney and Certificate for witnesses. This is usually required before a notary. Most banks have a notary on the premises or one can be found in your local Yellow Pages.
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File a copy of the letter with your county clerk or Land Title office only if the Power of Attorney could affect real property.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep the Power of Attorney with you to present to financial institutions or other offices as required.
References
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