A Hawaii power of attorney is a document that gives a person, called “the agent,” the ability to act legally on someone else’s behalf (“the principal”). The agent can decide on health, finance, and property matters when the principal is not present or cannot make these decisions for themselves.
Laws
Statute: Uniform Power of Attorney Act (Chapter 551E) and Advance health-care directives (§ 327E-3).
By Type
Durable (Financial)
Stays in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Limited (Special)
Used for a limited period of time or for a specific task, such as if you need someone to sign legal documents when you cannot physically be present.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Non-Durable (General)
Gives the agent the power to make financial decisions on behalf of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Springing
Comes into effect at a future time and only when a specific event occurs, such as the incapacitation of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Motor Vehicle (Form DMVL596-7-14)
Enables the principal (the seller or buyer) to choose an agent who will act on their behalf in vehicle related matters.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Real Estate
Authorizes an agent to handle real estate affairs on behalf of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Tax (Form N-848)
Designates an agent to represent the taxpayer’s interests in relation to tax authorities.
Signing Requirements: Taxpayer and attorney-in-fact.
Minor (Child)
Gives you the ability to sign temporary parental responsibility for your minor child to an agent.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Revocation
Enables the principal to terminate the authority granted to an agent.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
