A Texas Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants a person the authority to make decisions on behalf of another individual in matters related to property, finances, or medical issues.
By filling out a power of attorney form, the individual creating the document (known as the “principal”) can designate another person or organization to act as their “agent.” This allows the designated agent to handle the principal’s affairs if they cannot do so themselves.
Laws & Requirements
Statute: Chapter 752 of the Texas Estate Code
Signing Requirements § 751.0021: Notary public.
By Type
General/Financial Power of Attorney
Allows an appointed agent to manage your business and financial affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public (§ 751.0021).
Medical Power of Attorney
Use to provide legal instructions on how your medical care is to be determined if you cannot make such decisions for yourself.
Signing Requirements: Notary public or at two witnesses (§ 166.154).
Durable Power of Attorney
Remains in place even if you become incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Notary public (§ 751.0021).
Real Estate Power of Attorney
Restricts an agent to acting on issues relating to the principal’s property.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Minor (Child) Power of Attorney
Authorizes a third party to take parental responsibility for a child.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form VTR-271)
Appoint an agent to represent them in decisions relating to vehicles, including transfer of ownership.
Signing Requirements: Vehicle owner only.
Texas Tax Power of Attorney | Form 01-137
Grant a representative authority to manage your taxes.
Signing Requirements: Taxpayer only.
