Is a power of attorney durable by default in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Under Pennsylvania law, a power of attorney is durable by default — it continues even if you become incapacitated, unless the document says otherwise.

Can I revoke a power of attorney?

Yes. You can revoke a power of attorney at any time, as long as you have mental capacity. Provide written notice to your agent and to any institutions (banks, brokerages) that have a copy on file.

Does my power of attorney need to be notarized in Pennsylvania?

While notarization is not always legally required for every type of POA, most financial institutions will not accept a POA that is not notarized. It is strongly recommended to have the document notarized.

What is the difference between a power of attorney and a guardianship?

A power of attorney is voluntary — you choose your agent while you have capacity. A guardianship is court-imposed after someone is already incapacitated. A POA is faster, cheaper, and private. Guardianship is a last resort when no POA exists [§ 20-5511].

Can my agent change my will or trust?

No. A power of attorney does not authorize your agent to create or change your will. Trust modifications depend on the specific powers granted in the POA and the trust document.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Pennsylvania Power of Attorney — Types & How to Create

Financial and durable powers of attorney — who can manage your affairs if you cannot.

A Power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that lets you name someone — your agent — to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf. It is one of the most important estate planning documents because it is the only one that works while you are alive but unable to act for yourself §20-5601.

Why a power of attorney matters

Without a POA, if you become incapacitated — from an accident, stroke, or illness — no one can automatically access your bank accounts, pay your bills, manage your investments, or sell your property. Your family would need to petition the court for a conservatorship §20-5511, which is expensive, time-consuming, and public.

Types of powers of attorney

	Durable financial POA	Springing POA	Limited POA
When it takes effect	Immediately upon signing	Only when you become incapacitated	Immediately, for a specific task
Scope	Broad — all financial matters	Broad — all financial matters	Narrow — only the specified transaction
Survives incapacity	Yes §20-5601	Yes (that is its purpose)	Depends on the document
Common use	General estate planning	People uncomfortable giving immediate authority	Real estate closings, specific transactions
Risk	Agent can act immediately	Proving incapacity can delay access	Limited applicability

Pennsylvania law

In Pennsylvania, a power of attorney is durable by default §20-5601 — it remains effective even if you become incapacitated, unless the document says otherwise.

Pennsylvania has adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act §20-5601, which provides standardized rules for creating, accepting, and enforcing powers of attorney.

Pennsylvania's Power of Attorney Act (20 Pa. C.S. § 5601 et seq.) has specific execution requirements: the document must be signed before two witnesses and notarized. Pennsylvania requires a specific notice to the principal. A POA is durable by default: the agent may exercise the powers even after the principal becomes incapacitated unless the principal expressly limits their duration.

What your agent can do

A broadly drafted financial POA authorizes your agent to:

Access and manage bank and investment accounts
Pay bills, taxes, and debts
Buy, sell, or manage real estate
Handle insurance claims and government benefits
Make gifts (if the POA specifically authorizes it)
Manage business interests

Choosing an agent

Your agent should be someone you trust completely with your finances. Consider naming a successor agent in case your first choice is unable or unwilling to serve. The agent has a legal duty to act in your best interest, keep records, and avoid mixing your assets with their own.

⚠A power of attorney ends at death. After you die, the agent's authority ceases immediately and the Executor or Personal representative named in your will takes over. A POA is not a substitute for a will or trust.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Estate Planning)

You can start the intake without all of these.

Existing will or trust

(if any)

Asset summary

(property, accounts, policies)

Family information

(beneficiaries, guardians)

General preparation tips only. Requirements vary by case and state.

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