Financial Power of Attorney Form
This Financial Power of Attorney form lets you name someone as your agent to make financial decisions for you.
When you sign it, it becomes effective immediately. If you don't want it to become effective immediately, write that in the "Special Instructions" on page 4.
You can cancel this Power of Attorney at any time. Find the form to cancel your Financial Power of Attorney here.
After you download and fill out this form, follow these steps:
Carefully read and review the form. If leaving any sections blank, write “None” in that space. This form is written to become effective as soon as it is signed. If you want it to only be effective during a specific time period or if you are incapacitated, write that in the “Special Instructions” on page 4.
On page 3, you must initial next to the powers that you want your agent to have.
Sign the form. If you are giving your agent powers over real estate, the form must be signed in front of a notary public. If the form does not give your agent powers over real estate, it can still be helpful to sign the form in front of a notary public. The notary’s seal let’s banks and other organizations know that it is genuinely your signature on the form.
Make copies. After the notary stamps the form, make several photocopies.
If the form gives powers for real estate, file the form. If you give your agent powers over your real estate, you have to file a copy of the form with the County Recorder’s office where your property is. This will cost $34 for the first two pages and then $8 a page for each additional page.
Share the form with your agent. Make sure your agent has a copy of the form. It’s also a good idea to discuss your financial plans generally with your loved ones. Communication will help make sure that everyone is on the same page.