Washington Revocation Power of Attorney Form

How To Revoke A Power Of Attorney In Washington

Below are the steps you should take to revoke a POA correctly.

Step 1: Prepare your revocation document

You must write a Revocation of Power of Attorney form. This document must clearly state:

• Your full legal name as the principal.
• The name of the agent whose authority you are revoking.
• The date of the original POA you are cancelling.
• A simple statement that you are revoking all powers granted under that POA.

You can easily create a comprehensive revocation form with the help of our customizable template. Simply enter your details and instantly download the finished document.

Step 2: Sign the revocation

You must sign the revocation document. Washington law does not legally require notarization. However, many institutions (like banks) may ask for it to prove the signature is valid. You can also have witnesses if you prefer.

Step 3: Deliver the revocation to your agent

Give a copy of the signed revocation to the person who was your agent. This step is critical. Under Washington law, if the agent does not have actual notice of the revocation, they may still act in good faith under the old POA.

Step 4: Notify other interested parties

Send copies of the revocation to any institutions that may have relied on the original POA. This may include:

• Banks and credit unions
• Financial or investment firms
• Healthcare providers
• Insurance companies

Providing written notification guarantees that they know the agent no longer has authority to act for you.

Step 5: Record the revocation (if needed)

If the original POA was recorded with a county auditor (for example, in real estate matters), you must also record the revocation in the same office.

A recorded POA is not revoked unless the record also includes the instrument of revocation.

Recording puts third parties on notice that the POA is no longer valid.

Understanding Washington Revocation Laws

Under Washington's Uniform Power of Attorney Act, a POA ends when:

1. You revoke it in writing.
2. The document itself says it ends.
3. The purpose of the POA is accomplished.
4. You die (then the authority ends entirely).
5. You become incapacitated and the POA is not durable.

Good-faith protection for third parties

If an agent or someone else acts without actual knowledge of the revocation and in good faith, their actions may still bind you. That's why notifying the agent and all relevant entities is legally important.