What Is an Agent Authorization Letter?
An agent authorization letter is a form that grants someone permission to complete an action as if you were the one performing it. The letter clearly defines the scope of authority, ensuring that the agent only gets the powers you want them to have.
When a trusted agent has an authorization letter to act on your behalf, they can accomplish a task when you’re not present. For example, they may be allowed to sign forms or pick up packages for you.
An institution, like a bank, will need to see the behalf authorization letter to confirm the agent’s powers. Without one, your agent will likely not be allowed to act for you.
When to Use an Agent Authorization Letter
Use an agent letter of authorization when you cannot complete specific actions yourself. Reasons like your absence or incapacity may result in the need for this letter.
An agent authorization letter makes it easy to give someone else the power to do something for you. Some examples of when to use this letter include when you want someone to complete the following actions on your behalf:
- Pick up a passport, visa, credit card, or other documents.
- Handle your banking activities, investments, or other financial decisions.
- Authorize healthcare workers to perform dedicated actions.
- Receive your medical records.
- Pick up your personal property.
- Permit a child to go on a field trip or travel without a guardian.
- Release private information regarding drug treatment or rehabilitation.
- Grant publication or copyright access to external parties.
Agent Authorization Letter vs. Power of Attorney (POA)
The main difference between an agent authorization letter and a power of attorney (POA) is the scope of authority granted. An authorization letter tends to grant authority for a specific task in a preplanned situation. Meanwhile, a power of attorney is part of the larger estate planning process. It typically awards broader authority and may allow an agent to handle various matters, such as finances, property, or healthcare, over a longer period.
Even though a power of attorney tends to grant broader authority, you can create a POA with restrictions to accomplish a specific purpose, such as filing a tax return. Check out Legal Templates’ limited power of attorney form to assign only your intended powers.
Another difference between the documents is their acceptance and legal authority. POAs are typically widely accepted by banks, hospitals, and courts. On the other hand, these institutions might not accept authorization letters in all situations, especially for highly sensitive tasks. View a summary of the differences between a POA and an agent authorization letter below:
| Difference | Agent Authorization Letter | Power of Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Authority | Limited to a specific task | Tends to be broader |
| Purpose | For granting temporary or one-time permission for a specific task | Can be open-ended and may remain in effect if you become unable to make decisions yourself |
| Document Lifespan | Typically for one situation/action | Can be for ongoing use and last indefinitely |
| Notarization Required | Not typically, but it's recommended | Often required |
How to Write a Letter of Authorization on My Behalf
Write your agent authorization form strategically to ensure you only grant your agent the desired powers. Follow these steps to get started, and use Legal Templates’ guided form to produce a comprehensive document.
Step 1 – Write the Principal’s and Agent’s Information
Record your information as the principal, including your name, address, and contact information. Provide your agent’s name and address to clarify who will gain authority as part of your permission authorization letter.
Name the Recipient
Address the recipient at the beginning of the letter, whether it’s a bank, credit union, or another organization. This makes it clear that the agent has permission to exercise the authority granted at a specific location.
Step 2 – Grant Authority
The body of your authorized agent letter should define the specific authority you want to give. For example, it may authorize your agent to withdraw a specific amount from a particular bank account. Be as specific as possible so that anyone reading the letter understands what this person has the right to do.
You may specify the limitations of the granted authority. For example, you can select an end date or a frequency for the authority.
You can also include why you’re granting this power to another person. Specify if it is because you are out of town, temporarily incapacitated, or any other reason you have for giving your authority to another person.
Provide Evidence
Include specific documents to show your need to grant an agent to act on your behalf. For example, you can show court documents to prove you’re unavailable due to jury duty. Other examples of potential evidence include a travel itinerary, hospital admission papers, medical records, or a proof of residency affidavit.
Step 3 – Sign & Seek Notarization
Sign your letter to confirm you understand the powers you’re granting to your agent. You likely won’t need to get notarization, as most states only require notarization for powers of attorney. However, institutions may prefer or require your authorization letter to be notarized. Regardless of institutions’ requirements, obtaining notary acknowledgment is a good idea to increase the letter’s legitimacy.
Authorization Letter Sample
View our sample letter of authorization giving permission to learn how to format it. When you’re ready, use our step-by-step form to create your own. Downloadable as a PDF or Word document.
