A power of attorney is a legal document that grants a person the power to act or make decisions on behalf of the person who created the power of attorney. The person selected to make the decision is called the “agent” or “de facto agent”, and the person who creates and signs the power of attorney is called the “principal.” The power of attorney can be broad, granting the ability to make all decisions on behalf of the client, or it can be very narrow, limited to one type of decision, such as health care.

If you are granted power of attorney As an agent of someone you know, you may have some questions about how to perform your duties. Read the authorization document carefully so that you can understand when your authorization starts, immediately or later, and whether your authorization scope is broad or specific. As an agent, you may need to sign documents on behalf of the principal. The following information covers questions about who can sign as an authorized agent and how.

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Who can sign the power of attorney?

The only person legally authorized to sign the power of attorney is an individual Named agent In the power of attorney file. In many cases, the principal will appoint an alternative or alternate agent in case the first option is not available for some reason. It is possible to designate two or more people to act as agents at the same time, but this is not always recommended because conflicts may occur.

If you are not the only agent, you will need to find out whether you are a joint agent along with the other person named in the power of attorney. Concurrent agents can act independently of each other. Joint agents make decisions together, and if they disagree, they need to find a way to reach an agreement. Instructions on how to resolve conflicts are sometimes included in the power of attorney.You might consider Ask a lawyer If you have questions about how to resolve conflicts with other agents.

What is the correct way to sign the authorization form?

First, before you go to any meeting that needs to be signed on behalf of the principal as an agent, make sure you bring power of attorney with you. Although the client may have submitted a copy of the agreement to medical institutions and financial institutions, it is best to have a copy in case they request it (whether it is comparing the two or unable to find their copy). You may need to call in advance to confirm if there are other documents or identification documents that you need to bring with you. For example, you need to bring at least a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or ID card, to verify your identity.

The correct way to sign as an agent is to first sign the principal’s full legal name, then write “by”, and then sign. You may also want to indicate that you are signing as an agent by writing after signing: an agent, a de facto agent, a letter of authorization or a POA.

What happens when you sign as a power of attorney agent?

When an agent signs a document, its signature has the same legal effect as the principal. This means that any agreements signed, decisions made, or transactions conducted are legally binding, just as if the client had signed a document.

What are some examples to illustrate how to sign as a power of attorney agent?

Most agencies or agencies will have their own specific format requirements on how to sign as a power of attorney agent. The reason for this is that they can track the signing of the documents in case there are any disputes in the future. You can call and ask before an appointment or meeting to determine in advance which format is preferred.

When you sign on their behalf, the principal’s name will always appear first.

Sam Jones, After Katherine Spalding, Agent

Richard Smith, After Megan Smith, The lawyer actually

Diego Martinez, After Maria Espinosa,POA

Shirley Rodriguez, After Jose Sanchez, power of attorney

Making decisions, signing documents, or acting on behalf of others as an agent can be a major responsibility.If you have any questions about acting as a power of attorney, you may need Ask a lawyer.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm, nor is it a substitute for a lawyer or a law firm. The law is complex and changes frequently.For legal advice, please Ask a lawyer.