Free Connecticut Durable Power of Attorney Forms

Connecticut Durable Power of Attorney Law

Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 15c: Connecticut Uniform Power of Attorney Act and Connecticut Uniform Recognition of Substitute Decision-Making Documents Act - The law defines the roles of the agent in powers of attorney and defines crucial legal terms, including “durable.” It also discusses what makes a durable power of attorney legal and the signing requirements of the document.

Moreover, it states, “The meaning and effect of a power of attorney is determined by the law of the jurisdiction indicated in the power of attorney and, in the absence of an indication of jurisdiction, by the law of the jurisdiction in which the power of attorney was executed” (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 1-350f).

Signing Requirements in Connecticut

According to Connecticut law, the POA must be signed by the principal and dated. If the principal is physically unable to sign and has assigned another individual to sign on their behalf, the signing must be done in the principal’s presence and witnessed by two individuals. Further, it has to be acknowledged by a notary public.

How To Write a Durable POA in Connecticut

One may get a durable POA form from a law office in Connecticut or modify an existing printable template that has been downloaded online. But it has to follow the format acceptable in the state. Here are the steps in writing the document:

1. Identify the Agent

The agent has an important role in the durable POA. The agent acts on behalf of the principal on various matters, including financial transactions. The agent may file the income tax on behalf of the principal, manage the principal’s real estate and other assets, and issue checks or make deposits.

However, the agent cannot make healthcare decisions on the principal’s behalf. There needs to be a separate POA that empowers them to make healthcare-related choices for the principal.

Many principals choose a family member to take on the role of agent. It could be their spouse, sibling, or child. This is because the principal trusts a family member with their life savings and assets. On the other hand, the principal may also choose a lawyer or business partner who is familiar with the intricacies of their business.

Ultimately, your principal must be someone you trust to make the best financial decisions on your behalf.

2. Discuss the Agent’s Responsibilities

After picking an agent, you must speak with them and discuss their responsibilities in detail. The agent can start making decisions on your behalf the moment the document is signed. Should the time come that you can no longer think for yourself and become mentally incompetent, the durable POA remains in effect.

While the agent can now make decisions for you, their choices must be based on what you agreed upon and included in the POA.

3. Download a Connecticut Durable POA Template

For your convenience, download a template for the Connecticut Durable POA. It must follow the format that is acceptable in the state. Go over the template and fill out the necessary information, including details of the agent’s authority.

4. Sign the Document

Sign the document and indicate the date of signing. It is only valid when the signing is witnessed by at least two individuals and acknowledged by a notary public.

There are cases where the principal is unable to sign the document physically. The principal must then appoint someone to sign on their behalf as long as it is done in the presence of the principal.

5. Use the Durable Power of Attorney in Connecticut

After it has been duly signed, the document can now be used in Connecticut. It serves as the agent’s written permission to make decisions on behalf of the principal. Every time the agent decides on a legal matter, they have to present the POA as proof of the authority bestowed on them.