What state's Power of Attorney should I use for financial purposes?

Full question:

I live in New York state and want to grant durable Power of Attorney to an individual in North Carolina, allowing him to conduct certain financial transactions on my behalf relating to specified investment accounts. The investment bank in question is also headquartered in North Carolina but operates nationally. All transactions would be conducted online. Should I use your North Carolina Power of Attorney form, the New York form, or some hybrid version?

Answer:

A power of attorney that complies with the laws of the state may appoint a person who resides outside the state as the agent (attorney-in-fact) for the principal (person making the power of attorney). A power of attorney is governed by the law of the jurisdiction where the actions of the attorney-in-fact will be performed. Usuallly, this is where the property of the principal is located. It is generally not recommended to appoint an agent who resides in a different jurisdiction, unless the property or assets involved are also in the different jurisdiction. When the agent will be acting in more than one jurisdiction, separate powers of attorney for each jurisdiction are recommended.

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This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In North Carolina, a power of attorney (POA) must be in writing and signed by the principal. It should clearly state the powers granted to the agent. The principal must be at least 18 years old and mentally competent. While notarization is not required for all POAs, it is recommended to ensure validity and facilitate acceptance by third parties.