One size does not always fit all when it comes to a durable power of attorney. There are many online forms, but it might be best to have an attorney draft one for you. The durable power of attorney lists the powers that the agent holds and sometimes online forms do not list all powers you might desire or might not list the power with proper language. It is also important to include when the power activates. There can be joint agents, but that can get confusing so it could be better to name alternate agents. Powers of attorney have to be executed properly according to your state’s laws, so an estate-planning attorney can help with this compliance.
See Why Not Just Use an Off-the-Shelf Power of Attorney Form?, ElderLawAnswers, 2012.
Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse (Professional Legal Marketing (PLM, Inc.)) for bringing this article to my attention.
