Reasons to revoke a power of attorney form
Generally, you'll want to revoke a power of attorney for two main reasons. One is that you have an issue with your appointed agent; the other is that you may want to change the items and decisions your power of attorney covers.
We'll start by examining some common issues that could arise surrounding your agent:
- You and your agent may have a personal falling out, including a divorce. As such, you may no longer feel comfortable having this person make decisions on your behalf
- Your agent may pass away or succumb to a disease.
- Your agent may suddenly inform you he or she is no longer willing or able to perform the functions laid out in your power of attorney form.
In other words, if you are no longer satisfied with your agent, revoking your power of attorney form can be a great idea. Though, do keep in mind that you can include a second, alternate agent in your original POA. This is extremely helpful if your original agent is sick or has passed away and helps prevent you from having to create another document.
You may also want to revoke your power of attorney because you feel it is too narrow or too broad. For example, if you have a healthcare power of attorney, you may have a change of heart about "do not resuscitate" instructions or certain procedures, like dialysis. You'll need to revoke your power of attorney and create a new one to reflect these changes.
How to revoke a power of attorney
Revoking a power of attorney isn't too difficult. First, complete a revocation of power of attorney document and distribute it to your agent, estate planning attorney, and interested parties. Do make sure your original agent receives this revocation so he or she knows that your wishes in the original document are no longer valid.
After that, you'll want to create a new power of attorney that reflects the changes you'd like made. If you do not create a new power of ttorney, generally you will be responsible for managing your own affairs, without an appointed agent.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.