A durable power of attorney for finance is a legal document that gives
another person authority to conduct your finances on your behalf. That
person is often referred to as an “agent” or “attorney-in-fact.”
Having a durable power of attorney for finances is an integral part of
good estate planning and can save your loved ones extreme hassle in the
event you become incapacitated. If you do not have a durable power of
attorney for finances and become unable to manage your own financial affairs,
your loved ones would need to ask a court for authority over at least
some of your finances in a procedure called a “conservatorship proceeding.”
This process is both time-consuming and expensive.
The powers granted to your agent in a durable
power of attorney are completely within your discretion. Basic financial matters, such as
depositing checks, paying bills, and routine maintenance are standard,
however you may grant your agent broader powers as well. Those may include
investing money in stocks or bonds, buying and selling insurance policies,
operating a small business, or buying and selling real estate.
When Does a Durable Power of Attorney Go into Effect?
A durable power of attorney may either take effect immediately upon signing,
or only after a specified event occurs (most often, incapacitation of
the principal). The latter is otherwise known as a “springing”
power of attorney. Although it may feel less risky to have a springing
power of attorney, it is often more detrimental. In order to have a springing
power, you must name a person in the document that will declare in writing
that you are unable to manage your finances. It is often a lengthy and
complicated process for your agent to obtain this declaration of incapacity.
If you opt for a regular power of attorney that takes effect immediately,
your agent is granted the authority upon signing but may wait until you
are incapacitated, according to your wishes, to exercise authority. Thus,
if you trust your agent, there is no real drawback and in fact, a considerable
advantage to choosing a regular power of attorney over a springing power.
After you have drafted your power of attorney for finances, it is advisable
for you to have it notarized. Some states also require witnesses to your
signing. Although not every state requires notarization, it is a custom
that should be observed. Many financial institutions will not readily
accept a power of attorney unless it has been notarized, regardless of
state law.
Once the documents have been duly executed, copies should be provided to
financial institutions with which you have accounts. If you want your
agent to handle your banking needs, your agent should obtain an authorization
form and signature card from the bank. Giving your agent access to your
financial accounts is not the same thing as becoming “joint owners”
of your accounts. The agent does not own any of your property, but only
has the authority to control your property on your behalf.
If you are interested in creating a durable power of attorney for finances,
or have questions about previously drafted durable power of attorney documents,
contact Hannah Sargent, Alameda County
probate and
estate planning attorney.