A power of attorney lets someone you trust act for you with banks, property, taxes and bills, while you’re traveling, ill, or if you later lose capacity (if it’s durable).
Free General Power of Attorney template
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General Power of Attorney
I, ____, of ____ ("Principal"), appoint ____, of ____, as my attorney-in-fact ("Agent"). If my Agent is unable or unwilling to act, I appoint ____ as alternate Agent.
1. Authority
My Agent may act for me in all financial and legal matters to the fullest extent allowed by the law of ____, including banking and accounts; buying, selling and managing property; paying bills and debts; taxes and government benefits; insurance and retirement accounts; legal claims; and dealing with businesses I own.
2. Limits
____
3. Durability
____
4. Agent’s duties
My Agent must act in good faith, in my best interest, keep my property separate from the Agent’s own, keep records, and may not make gifts to the Agent except as permitted by law.
5. Reliance
Third parties may rely on this document and on my Agent’s authority unless they have actual notice that it has been revoked.
6. Revocation
I may revoke this power of attorney at any time by written notice to my Agent.
This document does not authorize medical decisions; I will use a separate health care directive for those.
Principal: __ Date: __
Witness: __ Witness: __
Notary acknowledgment
State of __ County of __
On __, before me personally appeared ____, proved to me to be the person whose name is signed above, who acknowledged signing this document voluntarily.
Notary Public: __ My commission expires: __
This free template is general information, not legal advice, and may not suit your state or situation. Some documents must be signed before witnesses or a notary. For anything important, have a lawyer review it.
Durable vs non-durable
A durable power of attorney keeps working if you become incapacitated, which is usually the point. A non-durable one ends if you lose capacity.
State forms matter
Many states have a statutory power of attorney form and specific signing rules (notary and sometimes witnesses). Banks may prefer the state’s own form. If your state has one, consider using it, or have a lawyer review this template.
Health care is separate
Medical decisions need a separate health care power of attorney or advance directive.
Frequently asked questions
Does a power of attorney need to be notarized?
In almost every state, yes, and some states also require witnesses.
Does a power of attorney end at death?
Yes. After death, the executor named in your will handles your affairs.
Questions from readers
Question about the General Power of Attorney? Ask it here. We answer common questions in general terms on this page. This is not legal advice.
