Meta Description: Getting someone else to make legally sound decisions for you requires a power of attorney. Find out how to get one (and notarize it) for free.
You might one day need somebody else to make significant healthcare or financial decisions on your behalf. Free power of attorney templates and other online documents simplify these arrangements. In this post, we’ll outline low-cost ways of establishing a legal proxy.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney lets you delegate your decisions to someone else. If you’re incapacitated or can’t make decisions, these forms explain who takes over. For example, you may need a family member to decide your treatment in a medical crisis.
Your POA will dictate your healthcare or finances, possibly both. Depending on the type of POA you select, different criteria will be required to “activate.” The main POA types are:
- General, which lets an “agent” act on your behalf in most financial/legal matters.
- Specific, which only gives the agent authority for certain sensitive situations.
- Durable, which remains in effect even once you’re incapacitated.
- Springing, which only takes effect in a specific situation, such as incapacitation.
You can mix these types together. For example, you may create a “springing specific” POA. You must choose your agent wisely. They should be someone you trust to carry out your wishes.
Average Costs of a Power of Attorney
Getting a lawyer to help you draft a power of attorney costs around $300. If your lawyer charges by the hour, the costs quickly add up. You might run into barriers that draw the process out. For example, you may have complex medical needs that take time to address in writing.
Legal aid can make your power of attorney fees more accessible. However, these services have strict eligibility criteria in any state. You could instead look into free online templates. These help you get a free POA that still stands up in court.
The Benefits of Using a Power of Attorney Template
A power of attorney form ensures that your loved ones carry out your wishes. Your financial and medical decisions will be in safe hands. With this in mind, here are seven benefits of using POA document templates:
- No lawyer fees: You’ll save hundreds of dollars with an online POA form. You’ll get the document you need for your situation for free.
- Saves time: Similarly, an online template lets you add your details to an existing form. It could be ready to sign within minutes.
- Peace of mind: Any POA form gives you the confidence that people will act in your best interests. You’ll also be ready for anything.
- State-specific: Your POA might need witnesses and a notary’s approval, depending on your state. Online templates give you the correct form for your state.
- E-signatures: You can keep a POA template entirely digital with e-signatures. Under the federal E-Sign Act, your document will still be legally binding.
- Fits your needs: Getting a POA that fits you is as simple as typing in the specifics you’d prefer. You’ll have protection in the situations you set out.
- Stops exploitation: You’ll protect yourself against future exploitation by picking somebody you trust. Only your agent will act on your behalf.
Navigating Notarization Fees
Depending on your state, your POA form will need a notary’s signature. Here are the states that require it alongside two witnesses:
- Florida
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- North Carolina
- Utah
In addition, over twenty states will require notarization if you can’t get two witnesses. However, a notary public’s services cost money. Depending on the state, you could spend $30 on one document. Even if you don’t need notarization, it acts as further legal backing.
Luckily, you can easily access free notarization services via most banks. For example, the Bank of America offers free notarization in most of its centers. In some states, you must wait until your appointment to sign the document. All signers must also bring ID.
Accessing Legal Aid
There are some complex legal situations where you can’t get by without a lawyer. For example, you may need to manage a complex estate against your POA’s provisions. If you definitely need a lawyer, government legal aid programs can help you find low-cost (or free) attorneys.
These are generally for people with low incomes. In fact, some organizations only assist people near the federal poverty line. You might have to seek paid legal help if you’re not eligible for aid. However, you may still be eligible for local pro bono services, depending on your situation.
Paying for a lawyer is usually unavoidable if you have a modest (or higher) income. It still helps to look at different attorneys in your area and compare their rates. Your due diligence could still save you some money.
Conclusion
You shouldn’t rush into giving someone the power to make decisions for you. However, if you’re sure you want this, use an online POA form. When free templates are readily available, there’s little reason to spend hundreds on a lawyer.
