A Pennsylvania Power of Attorney is a document that lets an individual choose a person (or “agent”) to make decisions for them. The “principal” (the person assigning the powers) can decide on various types of authority to grant, ranging from financial to medical decision-making powers.
Laws
Statute: Chapter 56 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.
By Type
Durable (Financial)
Use to prevent your power of attorney becoming void if you lose the capacity to make your own decisions.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary (§ 5601(b)(3)).
Limited (Special)
Allows the principal to be specific regarding what the agent can do on his or her behalf, and assign limited powers.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary (§ 5601(b)(3)).
Non-Durable (General)
Gives an agent broad authority to act on the principal’s behalf. This means the agent can make financial or business decisions on behalf of the principal.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary (§ 5601(b)(3)).
Springing
“Springs” into action at a specified time, such as when the principal becomes incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary.
Vehicle
Allows vehicle owners to designate an agent to handle vehicle titling and registration.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and notary public.
Real Estate
Sanctions an agent to take charge of the principal's real estate matters.
Signing Requirements: Notary public and two witnesses.
Tax (Form REV-677)
Execute a Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Power of Attorney to appoint a representative for state tax matters.
Minor (Child)
Grants temporary care for a child's health and education.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and notary public.
