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Getting a Power of Attorney For Parent - The Bills.com Blog
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Getting a Power of Attorney For Parent
Monday, Aug 24, 2009
Question: I would like to know where the form is to speak on my mom's behalf. She is 80 and she doesn't understand.
Answer: The document you are looking for is called a "Power of Attorney" or "PoA." By signing a Power of Attorney appointing you as her representative, or "Attorney-in-Fact," your mother could authorize you to make certain decisions on her behalf, and authorize third parties, such as her doctor, banking institution, etc., to take direction from you regarding your mother's affairs.There are numerous types of PoAs, from the very broad "General Power of Attorney" to documents that address a specific issue, such as healthcare, financial affairs, etc. What type of PoA you should use depends on how much responsibility you want to take on, and how much authority over her day-to-day affairs your mother wants to give you. If your mother does not feel comfortable signing a general power of attorney, you may want to recommend that you use a more specific version that will allow you to address her specific needs.
I strongly recommend that
you consult with a local attorney for assistance in drafting a good power of attorney form. Most states have laws requiring that power of attorney documents include specific items, such as a notary acknowledgment and/or witness signature. Any document that does not meet these requirements may not hold up to scrutiny if it were ever contested.
Because these laws are specific to each state, many of the generic forms you can find on the internet do not meet these legal requirements. An experienced attorney can help you identify what type of PoA you and your mother really need based on your individual circumstances, and should be able to answer any questions
Because these laws are specific to each state, many of the generic forms you can find on the internet do not meet these legal requirements. An experienced attorney can help you identify what type of PoA you and your mother really need based on your individual circumstances, and should be able to answer any questions
you may have about the authority and limitations afforded by the PoA. Your state or county Bar Association should be able to refer you to a qualified elder law attorney for assistance if you do not already have an attorney who can assist you.
You can read more about PoAs, and view several example forms, at ExpertLaw's Power of Attorney page.
I wish to reiterate that I do not recommend using one of these sample forms, and strongly encourage you to consult with a local attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
I wish you the best of luck, and hope that the information I have provided helps you Find. Learn. Save.
Best,
Bill
www.bills.com
You can read more about PoAs, and view several example forms, at ExpertLaw's Power of Attorney page.
I wish to reiterate that I do not recommend using one of these sample forms, and strongly encourage you to consult with a local attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
I wish you the best of luck, and hope that the information I have provided helps you Find. Learn. Save.
Best,
Bill
www.bills.com
Also, make sure to get a free financial health check-up with Bills IQ!
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1. Posted by Betty Sue Brewer on Tuesday 29th September 2009 12:49
How do I get power of attorney to pay my Mother's bills when she is not able? What do I need to do? She is in the hospital and in very bad condition.
2. Posted by Bill on Tuesday 29th September 2009 13:05
There is no cut-and-paste way for you to have these powers granted to you. I urge you to see an attorney in your state who has experience in family law to help you draft the necessary documents.