How to Revoke a General Power of Attorney

Sometimes a power of attorney is in effect only for a short period of time.

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives another person or people the ability to make decisions on your behalf. A power of attorney is in effect for as long as both parties are alive or until it is revoked, whichever comes first. Whether you required a power of attorney for only a short period of time or are no longer satisfied with your current agent and wish to assign someone else to the position, revoking this legal document is a fairly simple process.

Things You'll Need

• Paper, pen
• Revocation document (if desired)
• Witness

Instructions

1. Write, download or type a document stating your intent to revoke the power of attorney. If creating your own document, the following items must be included: your full legal name, current date, the date the original power of attorney was executed (put into effect), and a statement that you are of "sound mind." List the name or names of the people designated as your agent for the original power of attorney and state your wish to revoke the original document.

2. Sign and date the document, preferably in the presence of a witness. Have the witness sign his or her name, adding his or her address and the date below the signature.

3. Write "REVOKE" at the top or across the text of your original document, and sign and date, to avoid having it used in an unauthorized manner.

4. If necessary, you may need to have the document notarized.

   Send copies of the revocation document to government entities, banks, hospitals and any other institutions that need the updated information.

5. If you wish to designate another person as your agent for a power of attorney, you can create a new legal document for that purpose.

Tips & Warnings

• Laws may vary from state to state, so check with a local legal board or attorney for information regarding the specific requirements of your state regarding revoking a power of attorney.

• The information given here is not a substitute for that given by a legal professional. If in doubt, contact a lawyer for more detailed information.

References

• Legal Services for the Elderly: Power of Attorney
• State of California: Power of Attorney General Information

Resources

• United States Patent and Trademark Office: Power of Attorney Forms