A Colorado power of attorney is a legal document that gives a person you choose the authority to make certain decisions on your behalf if you need help managing your affairs. The person you appoint (your “agent”) can sign for you, make payments, and complete several other tasks on your behalf, depending on how you restrict their authority in the form.
Laws
Statute: Uniform Power of Attorney Act (Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 15, Article 14, Part 7).
By Type
Durable (Financial)
Will remain in force even if you become incapacitated. It's presumed to be durable unless the document states otherwise.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Medical
Specifies the kind of medical care you should receive should you become unable to make decisions yourself.
Signing Requirements: Just the principal - No witness or notary signatures required (§ 15-14-506).
Limited (Special)
Restricts an agent's powers to manage only certain affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Non-Durable (General)
Gives your appointed agent legal authority to manage your business and financial affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Springing
Takes effect when a specific event occurs, such as the incapacitation of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Motor Vehicle (Form DR 2175)
Restricts an agent or proxy’s authority to manage a person’s vehicle-related affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Real Estate
Authorizes a third party (agent) to manage your property affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Tax (Form DR 0145)
Grants a third party the legal power to manage your tax affairs.
Signing Requirements: Taxpayer.
Minor (Child)
Grants temporary parental responsibility to an agent or proxy.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Revocation
Ends an agent's authority under a previously created POA.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
