An Iowa power of attorney gives someone else, known as an “agent,” the power to make legal or medical decisions on behalf of an individual, known as the “principal.” The document can grant this authority if the principal cannot make their own decisions due to health or distance — for example, if they’re traveling or become legally “incapacitated” (disability, illness, or injury).
Laws & Requirements
Statute: Chapter 633B, Powers of Attorney.
Signing Requirements: For the power of attorney document to be legally valid, it must be signed by the principal or someone else directed by the principal and in their presence and also notarized (§ 633B.105).
Iowa Power of Attorney – By Type
General (Financial) Power of Attorney
Gives the agent the ability to make financial decisions on behalf of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Medical Power of Attorney
Enables the agent to make health care and end-of-life decisions on your behalf when you cannot make them for yourself.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary public (§ 144B.3)
Durable (Statutory) Power of Attorney
Remains in place if the principal becomes incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Limited Power of Attorney
Grants an agent limited powers for specific tasks, and typically ends when those tasks have been completed.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Tax Power of Attorney (Form 2848)
Gives a named agent the power to file taxes on your behalf or otherwise manage your tax affairs.
Signing Requirements: Principal only.
Workforce Power of Attorney (Form 68-0092)
Allows businesses to release employment information for claimants filing for unemployment.
Signing Requirements: Employer only.
Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form 411021)
Gives an agent the power to manage your vehicle-related affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Real Estate Power of Attorney
Use this document to authorize an agent for real estate transactions. It requires notarization and ends upon death or incapacity.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Minor (Child) Power of Attorney
Use this to temporarily grant someone parental authority over a child, including care and healthcare decisions.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Revocation of Power of Attorney
Use to cancel any previously granted authority via a power of attorney (POA) document.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and/or notary public (recommended).