The West Virginia general financial power of attorney is a legal document that enables you to appoint an “agent” or “attorney-in-fact” to oversee your financial affairs. This form gives the agent extensive powers to manage various financial activities, including overseeing bank accounts, purchasing or selling property, managing investments, settling bills, and handling various other financial dealings.
A power of attorney template can be customized to meet the specific needs of the principal, but in its general form, it typically grants extensive powers to the agent. These powers can be effective immediately upon signing the document and continue to be in effect unless it specifies a termination date or event, such as the principal’s incapacity. However, in West Virginia, the general power of attorney will not remain in effect if the principal becomes incapacitated.
Use our West Virginia power of attorney forms to legally authorize someone to manage your affairs.
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In West Virginia, the laws governing general powers of attorney are outlined in the Uniform Power of Attorney Act (West Virginia Code, Chapter 39B). These laws ensure that a person, referred to as the principal, can empower an agent to carry out a variety of actions on their behalf. The scope of authority granted under a general power of attorney can include:
To be legally recognized, a power of attorney in West Virginia must be signed by the principal or by another at the principal’s direction in the presence of a notary public or other authorized official.
| Document Name | West Virginia General Power of Attorney Form |
| Other Name | West Virginia Financial Power of Attorney |
| Relevant Laws | West Virginia Code, Chapter 39B |
| Avg. Time to Fill Out | 10 minutes |
| # of Fillable Fields | 41 |
| Available Formats | Adobe PDF |
Completing a general power of attorney in West Virginia is crucial for legally authorizing someone to manage your financial affairs. To ensure the form is filled out correctly, follow the detailed steps below.
1. Identifying the Principal and Attorney-in-Fact
Begin by entering your full legal name and address in the designated space at the top of the form. Directly beneath this, specify the name and address of the person you appoint as your attorney-in-fact. This designation must be carefully considered, as this individual will have significant control over your finances.
2. Granting Specific Powers
Proceed to the section labeled “Powers,” where you will see a list of financial authorities you can grant your attorney-in-fact. Place your initials next to the corresponding number for each power you wish to assign. These powers include but are not limited to making payments, managing personal and real property, handling banking transactions, and dealing with tax matters. It is critical to review each item thoroughly and decide which powers your attorney-in-fact should have.
3. Execution and Witnessing
Once you have designated the powers, you need to sign the document in the presence of a notary public. The form requires that your signature be notarized to verify its authenticity. Ensure you have a government-issued photo ID for identification purposes during notarization.
4. Acceptance by Attorney-in-Fact
After your part is complete, the appointed attorney-in-fact must also sign the form, acknowledging their acceptance of the responsibilities and powers you have granted. This section is vital as it confirms that the attorney-in-fact agrees to undertake the duties assigned and understands their obligations.
5. Finalize and Store the Document
Make several copies once all parties have signed and the form has been notarized. Provide one to your attorney-in-fact, keep one for your records, and consider giving additional copies to your financial advisor or attorney. It’s also wise to store the original in a safe, accessible place, such as a safe deposit box or with a legal representative.
