A Pennslyvania power of attorney is a document that lets a Pennsylvania resident choose a person (or “agent”) to make decisions for them. The individual who assigns an agent (known as the “principal”) can revoke the agent’s power of attorney whenever they want.
Laws & Requirements
Statute: Chapter 56 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.
Signing Requirements § 5601(b)(3): Two witnesses and a notary.
By Type
General/Financial Power of Attorney
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)).
Revocation of Power of Attorney
Use to void a power of attorney.
Signing Requirements: Notary Public recommended.
Medical Power of Attorney
Allows you to specify what kind of medical care you wish to receive should you become unable to make the decision yourself.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses (§ 5452 ).
Durable Power of Attorney
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) Power of Attorney
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)).
Springing Power of Attorney
“Springs” into action at a specified time, such as when the principal becomes incapacitated.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and a notary.
Vehicle Power of Attorney
Allows vehicle owners to designate an agent to handle vehicle titling and registration.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and notary public.
Pennsylvania Tax Power of Attorney (Form REV-677)
Execute a Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Power of Attorney to appoint a representative for state tax matters.
Minor (Child) Power of Attorney
Grants temporary care for a child's health and education.
Signing Requirements: Two witnesses and notary public.
Real Estate Power of Attorney
Sanctions an agent to take charge of the principal's real estate matters.
Signing Requirements: Notary public and two witnesses.
