10 questions to ask yourself before you prepare your power of attorney using a form from the internet or office supply store:
Do you know…
- The difference between a Durable Power of Attorney and a general Power of Attorney?
- When the person you appoint as your Power of Attorney can start to act for you?
- How to change your Durable Power of Attorney if you are no longer satisfied with the person that you appointed?
- If the Power of Attorney will give the person you appoint enough authority to help you?
- If the person you appoint is allowed to make gifts using your money?
- The proper signing procedure that will ensure that your Power of Attorney is valid?
- The protocol if the person you appoint dies or is otherwise unable to serve?
- If the person you appoint can make decisions that you do not agree with?
- Who you should inform that you have a Power of Attorney?
- If giving someone a Power of Attorney, means that you don’t have control over your money anymore?
If you are unsure of the answers to these questions it may be in your best interest to consult an attorney to assist you.