Power of Attorney Checklist
The essential legal documents every senior needs — and a step-by-step checklist to make sure nothing is missed. Interactive, printable, and free.
Financial POA lets a trusted person pay bills and manage accounts if you can't.
Healthcare POA ensures your medical wishes are followed — not a stranger's decision.
Living Will documents your end-of-life preferences before a crisis forces a choice.
POLST is a signed doctor's order — first responders must follow it immediately.
Financial Power of Attorney
Authorizes a trusted agent to manage money, pay bills, and handle financial decisions on your behalf.
Healthcare Power of Attorney
Also called a Healthcare Proxy — authorizes an agent to make medical decisions if you cannot speak for yourself.
Living Will / Advance Directive
Documents your specific end-of-life wishes in writing so they can be followed even if you cannot communicate.
POLST Form
A medical order signed by a physician — immediately actionable by EMS and hospital staff in an emergency.
Organize & Communicate
The documents only work if the right people know they exist and know where to find them.
This checklist is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements vary by state. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.
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Recommended Services
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Online legal services that create state-specific, attorney-reviewed Power of Attorney documents at a fraction of traditional law firm costs.
Trust & Will
Estate planning attorneys recommend Trust & Will for POA, living wills, and complete estate plans. State-specific documents, attorney-reviewed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to create a Power of Attorney?
Not necessarily. Many states provide free official POA forms that are legally valid when properly signed and notarized. Online legal services like Trust & Will can also prepare legally valid documents for a fraction of an attorney's fee. A lawyer is most valuable if your situation is complex (a business, blended family, or large estate).
What is the difference between a Financial POA and a Healthcare POA?
A Financial Power of Attorney authorizes your agent to manage money, pay bills, handle bank accounts, and make financial decisions on your behalf. A Healthcare Power of Attorney (also called a Healthcare Proxy) authorizes your agent to make medical decisions if you cannot speak for yourself. These are two separate documents, and you can choose different agents for each.
What is a POLST form and who needs one?
A POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) is a medical order — signed by a doctor — that tells first responders and hospital staff your specific wishes about CPR, ventilators, and other life-sustaining treatments. It is recommended for people with a serious illness or advanced age who want to make sure their wishes are followed in an emergency. Unlike a living will, a POLST is immediately actionable by EMS.
Can I use an online legal service instead of a lawyer for POA documents?
Yes, for most people in straightforward situations, online services like Trust & Will or LegalZoom produce legally valid Power of Attorney documents at a much lower cost than a traditional attorney. These services guide you through your state's specific requirements and generate properly formatted documents. Always check that the final document is notarized and/or witnessed as required by your state.
What happens if I don't have a Power of Attorney and become incapacitated?
Without a POA, your family may have to go to court to obtain a guardianship or conservatorship — a process that can cost thousands of dollars and take months. During that time, no one may legally be able to pay your bills, access your bank accounts, or make medical decisions. A properly prepared POA avoids all of this by granting authority immediately when it is needed.