How to Setup Your
Power of Attorney

You can use your attorney to establish your Power of Attorney documentation; however, that is not necessary. You can also download a Power of Attorney template that is legally binding for your state for free online.

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There is no standard POA form for all 50 states; state law and procedures vary. All states accept some version of the durable power of attorney. Many states require that the signature of the principal (the person who initiates the POA) be notarized. Some states also require that witnesses' signatures be notarized. This is the case for the State of Alabama.

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While some regions of the country accept oral POA grants, verbal instruction is not a reliable substitute for getting each of the powers of attorney granted to your agent spelled out word-for-word on paper. Written clarity helps to avoid arguments.

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Online Vendors to Build Your POA

Free online services are available from Rocket Lawyer at https://www.rocketlawyer.com/powerofattorney. Your first three documents with Rocket Lawyer are free. There are additional charges associated with more than three documents. You can also learn more about POA's on the website to get additional information. Their guided process to build the document is easy to follow and implement. You can also obtain signatures digitally through email - which is handy for those that don't live near one another or obtain signatures in person.

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Another trusted online vendor is LegalZoom. LegalZoom does charge $35 to build out the POA, but also has a simple to follow online approach. https://www.legalzoom.com/personal/estate-planning/power-of-attorney-overview.html

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Three Tips for Building Your Online POA

Prior to getting started online, we recommend you:

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1. Determine who you would like to name as the POA and ask for their permission to be named as POA in advance of building the document. If they accept, let them know that you will be working to setup the documents and will let them know when they are ready for review and signature. Reassure them that you will go over the documents prior to seeking their signature and work to make sure they have everything they need. As someone with Parkinson's, this is critical to ensure they understand that they could very well need to be very involved in the management of your health care or finances and it isn't a decision to be made lightly.

2. You can generally find a practice worksheet online with the vendor you choose that can help you think of all items in advance. Once you can complete this information, you are ready to fill in the form online. This helps you collect the information you need in advance for a smoother online process.

3. If you are utilizing an attorney to create your POA, you can also provide the worksheet to help with the draft of formal documentation for signature.

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Finally, if you anticipate any debate or contention that your Power of Attorney may ever be contested, it may be best to consult with an attorney rather than build your document online. Any Estate Planning Attorney or Elder Care Lawyer can assist with the draft and completion of a Power of Attorney. Shop wisely - fees vary.

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Disclaimer: At PAA, our desire is to be a GO TO Resource for everything you need for the Parkinson's diagnosis to live a quality life with PD. We want to make sure you have all resources you need as you plan your journey with Parkinson's now and into the future so that you can reflect and discern what decisions you want to make with the appropriate insights to help you choose and build a plan that is unique as your journey. The PAA, nor the contents on this website, should never be a replacement for professional expertise and guidance from medical, legal, or financial professionals. Our goal is to equip you for those conversations. As such, the PAA cannot be held accountable for your choices and outcomes while navigating your Parkinson's condition.