Power Of Attorney requirements in Pennsylvania
- You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to make a POA in Pennsylvania.
- Fill out a power of attorney form specifically for Pennsylvania. You can find free basic forms online or get one from a lawyer.
- Your signature must be notarized. For a medical POA, you typically also need two adult witnesses (not your agent or family members).
- Choose your agent (the person you appoint) carefully—they should be someone you trust completely. You can name more than one if you want.
- The POA must include a written notice to the agent, as required by Pennsylvania law.
- The document must be signed voluntarily, and you must be able to understand what you're signing.
Ready to make your Pennsylvania power of attorney? Download a state-approved form today and get peace of mind.
Create your power of attorneyHow to create a Power Of Attorney in Pennsylvania, step by step
- Decide what type of POA you need: a durable power of attorney for finances (starts now or later, stays valid if you're incapacitated), a medical power of attorney for health decisions, or a general POA for a limited time.
- Choose your agent and a backup agent. Make sure they agree to the role and understand your wishes.
- Get a Pennsylvania-specific POA form. You can download one from the state's official website or use a licensed online service.
- Fill out the form completely, including specific powers you want to give your agent (like handling real estate or bank accounts).
- Sign the form in front of a notary public. For medical POAs, you'll also need two adult witnesses (they can't be your agent or related to you).
- Store the original in a safe place, and give copies to your agent, your bank, and your doctor. Review and update it as needed.
Cost considerations
The cost depends on how you make it. If you download a free form and use a notary (usually $5–$25 per signature), you might pay under $50 total. If you hire a lawyer to draft a custom POA, expect to pay $200–$500. Online services often cost around $50–$150.
Before You Begin: PA Power of Attorney Checklist
Ensure your Pennsylvania power of attorney is valid and effective by preparing key items and understanding state rules. Use this checklist to avoid common mistakes.
- Decide on the type: financial (durable) or healthcare (medical) power of attorney—each has different rules.
- Choose a trusted agent (attorney-in-fact) and a successor, and discuss your wishes in advance.
- For financial POA: your document must be signed by you (the principal) and notarized; two witnesses are not required for financial POA in PA.
- For healthcare POA: your document must be signed by you, and either notarized or signed by two witnesses (not related to you or your agent) in your presence.
- Have your full legal name, address, and Social Security number ready, plus your agent's full legal name and address.
- Gather any property, bank, and account details if you want to grant specific powers—general language may not cover all assets.
Common questions
What is a durable power of attorney in Pennsylvania?
A durable POA stays in effect if you become incapacitated. It's the most common type for financial decisions. Without 'durable' language, the POA becomes invalid if you can't make decisions yourself.
Do I need a lawyer for a power of attorney?
No, you can make one yourself using a valid form. But if your estate is complex, you're buying/selling property, or you have concerns about family conflicts, a lawyer can help avoid mistakes.
Can I have both a medical and financial power of attorney?
Yes, you can have separate documents. In Pennsylvania, a medical POA is often combined with a living will. You can also have one document that covers both, but it's usually clearer to separate them.
When does a power of attorney take effect?
It depends on what you choose. A 'springing' POA only becomes effective when you're incapacitated (usually with a doctor's note). An 'immediate' POA starts as soon as you sign it. Most lawyers recommend an immediate durable POA.