A Kentucky power of attorney enables you (the “principal”) to nominate another person (an “agent”) to manage your personal, financial, or medical affairs if you’re unable to. The document is used when you can’t be present to sign the paperwork or to ensure choices are made in your best interest if you become “incapacitated” (unable to make your own decisions due to illness, injury, or disability).
Laws & Requirements
Statute: Chapter 457 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes.
Signing Requirements: For a power of attorney to be valid in Kentucky, a notary public must acknowledge the principal’s signature (§ 457.050).
Kentucky Power of Attorney – By Type
General (Financial) Power of Attorney
Appoints an agent to exercise power over your finances.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Medical Power of Attorney
Authorizes an agent to carry out your medical wishes if you become incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses or a notary public (§ 311.625).
Durable (Statutory) Power of Attorney
Allows your agent to continue making decisions on your behalf even after you lose the capacity to act.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Tax Power of Attorney (Form 20A100)
Allows an individual to delegate a representative to manage their tax matters with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
Signing Requirements: Taxpayer(s) and representative(s).
Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form TC96-336)
The agent may execute vehicle-related transactions such as transfer of ownership on behalf of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Real Estate Power of Attorney
Use this for real estate transactions, like buying or selling property.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Minor (Child) Power of Attorney
Use this to temporarily grant another adult decision-making authority over a child’s healthcare and education.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
