A Washington DC power of attorney gives an individual (“grantee” or “agent”) the power to act on behalf of another person (“grantor” or “principal”). It’s often used in medical, real estate, and financial decisions.
Laws
Statute: Uniform Power of Attorney Act (Title 21, Chapter 26).
By Type
Durable (Financial)
Grants someone the authority to act and make financial decisions for you.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Medical
Designates someone to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make them yourself.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses.
Limited (Special)
Gives an agent the authority to complete a specific task, and usually ends when the task has been executed.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Non-Durable (General)
Gives an agent broad powers to handle your affairs, and is commonly used for day-to-day financial matters.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Springing
"Springs” into effect in a certain situation, and ends at a time you specify in the document.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Advance Health Care Directive
Appoints an agent to make medical decisions on your behalf after you’ve been declared incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses (§ 21–2205).
Motor Vehicle (Form DMV-VSPA-01)
Authorizes an agent to represent you legally in matters relating to your vehicles.
Signing Requirements: Principal and Agent.
Real Estate
Allows an individual to appoint an agent to handle their real estate affairs.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Tax (Form D-2848)
Grants a representative the authority to act on a taxpayer's behalf in tax-related matters.
Signing Requirements: Taxpayer and representative.
Minor (Child)
Enables parents to delegate parental responsibilities to a chosen agent.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
Revocation
Allows the principal to formally end the agent’s authority.
Signing Requirements: Notary public.
