Attorney Finances Financial

In many states, notarization is required by law to make the durable power of attorney valid. But even where law doesn't require it, custom usually does. A durable power of attorney that isn't notarized may not be accepted by people with whom your attorney-in-fact tries to deal.

In New Jersey, all power of attorney documents require that both the principal and the attorney-in-fact are competent and be of sound mind at the point at which they are executed. They must be signed in the presence of at least 2 witnesses and in the presence of a licensed Notary of the State of New Jersey.

In order to ensure the validity of the Power of Attorney, it should be notarized. However, if this is not possible, you should still complete the form to the best of your ability. A notary is someone who simply acknowledges that a person is signing a document.In addition, any attorney in New Jersey is a notary.

A N.J. lawyer is an ex-officio notary and can take acknowledgements, administer oaths.

Most states offer simple forms to help you create a power of attorney for finances. Generally, the document must be signed, witnessed and notarized by an adult. If your agent will have to deal with real estate assets, some states require you to put the document on file in the local land records office.

By signing the durable power of attorney, you are authorizing another person to act for you, the principal. Before you sign this durable power of attorney, you should know these important facts:This durable power of attorney must be dated and must be acknowledged before a notary public or signed by two witnesses.

Choose an agent. Before you begin to fill out the form, you have some decisions to make. Decide on the type of authority. You can choose whether you want your POA to be broad or narrow. Identify the length of time the POA will be in effect. Fill out the form. Execute the document.

Determine if one is needed. Under a few circumstances, a power of attorney isn't necessary. Identify an agent. Take a look at the standard forms. Notarize the written POA, keep it stored safely, and provide copies to important people. Review the POA periodically.

Include their address, relationship to you, phone number, or email address. Also specify whether the durable power of attorney applies to financial decisions, health care decisions, legal decisions, or all three areas. Include any instructions you would like to leave for your agent.