A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives someone else the authority to act on behalf of an individual who cannot do so themselves. A POA may be granted to anyone, including family members, friends, business associates, lawyers, accountants, financial advisors, doctors, nurses, clergymen and even neighbors.

What should you know about power of attorney?

These are some important things that you should know about a power of attorney form:

• A POA does not necessarily have to be written down in a few states; instead, oral agreements between parties are sufficient. That being said, in order to be on the safe side and to have a written proof to show to a court of law in case of any confusion or argument, it is better to have a written power of attorney with you.

• A POA can be revoked at any time by either party. If you choose to revoke your POA, then no one can take care of your financial affairs, make medical decisions, or handle your property after you die.

• However, revocation requires a court order and is generally only done if the person signing the POA is no longer incapable of making decisions. Revocation is often necessary if the person who signed the POA becomes healthy again.

• Whether you need a free power of attorney form in Texas or for Florida you can get the same easily from websites that have legal form templates on offer for free or at a small cost. You can download any of these templates and customize it for your individual requirements just as you like.

• A POA does NOT need to be registered with the government. However, if a POA involves property, then it should be recorded with the county recorder's office.

• You can appoint anybody as your agent or attorney in fact the help of a power of attorney. The person could be your friend, your son or daughter, or a friend or even a professional caregiver or a person whom you trust. Basically anybody who you appoint as your agent must be a reliable individual and someone who will be ready to put your interests ahead of his own.