Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney Form

Updated: Oct 31, 2026

What Is a Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney

A limited power of attorney is built for a defined job. You pick the task and the person who will carry it out for you. Think of a one-time sale or a single transaction.

The Tennessee limited power of attorney grants someone, often referred to as the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact,” the authority to act on behalf of another person, known as the “principal,” in specific circumstances. A limited power of attorney specifies particular activities or events for the agent, unlike a general power of attorney, which covers a broad range of actions.

For example, you can authorize an agent to manage tasks like selling a property or conducting financial transactions for a specific timeframe. When it is established, the principal determines the extent, length, and terms of a power of attorney.

Examples of When to Use a Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney

A limited power of attorney is most useful when one job needs someone else to step in. These examples show the kinds of tasks people hand to an agent. Pick the one closest to your situation and name that task in the purposes section.

• Real estate transactions. Let an agent sign closing paperwork for a property when you cannot attend, for example because you live out of state.
• Business matters. Have an agent act on your behalf for one business transaction or filing.
• Banking tasks. Appoint an agent to handle one account request, such as depositing a check or closing an account.
• Selling a vehicle. Ask an agent to complete the sale of a car or boat if you're away for a while.

Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney at a Glance

The table below summarizes the form in one place. It lists the document name, the other name it goes by, how long it takes to fill out and the file format.

You can get all Tennessee power of attorney forms online to give someone the authority to act on your behalf in specific matters.

Signing a Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney

In Tennessee, while the law does not specifically mandate certain signing requirements for a limited power of attorney, it is highly recommended that the document be notarized or witnessed to ensure its validity. Points to consider when signing a limited power of attorney in Tennessee include:

• Ensuring the document specifies the powers granted.
• Having the principal sign in the presence of a notary or witnesses.
• Confirming the agent understands the extent of the authority given.

These steps are guided by the Tennessee Code Annotated (Sections 34-6-101 to 34-6-112), which outlines the general provisions for power of attorney.

In Tennessee, like in other states, the person granting powers must sign the document to guarantee its legitimacy. The principal can also revoke the limited power of attorney whenever they are of sound mind.

How to Fill Out the Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney

The Tennessee limited power of attorney form allows you to appoint an agent to handle particular legal, financial, or personal duties in your stead. You must complete this form accurately to ensure your wishes are followed and legally upheld.

1. Gather the Information You Need. Before you start, collect your full legal name and address. Also collect the full legal name and address of the person you choose as your agent, also called your attorney-in-fact.
2. Enter the Principal's Information. Type your full name and your current address in the opening lines of the form. You are the principal, the person who gives the agent authority to act for you.
3. Name Your Agent. Enter your agent's full name and address in the lines provided. If you want a backup, use the alternate agent lines for that person's full name and address.
4. List the Powers You Are Granting. Write each power on its own line in the purposes section. Be specific. Name the property, account or task, so it is clear what your agent is doing for you.
5. Add Your Initials. Add your initials on each initial line of the form, and check every name and address for spelling before you move on.

How to Sign and Use the Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney

Once the form is filled in, the last steps are signing it and sharing it with the right people. Follow them in order, and keep a signed copy where you can find it later.

1. Acknowledge Fiduciary Obligation. Understand and acknowledge that your attorney-in-fact agrees to act in your best interest and will perform their duties in a fiduciary capacity. This mutual understanding should be recognized in the form.
2. Sign and Date the Form. Sign the form in the designated area at the bottom. It is highly recommended that you sign in the presence of a notary or witnesses to validate the authenticity of your signature. Fill in the date to document when the power of attorney officially takes effect.
3. Store and Share the Document. Keep the signed original in a safe place. Give copies to your agent and to any bank or office where your agent will act for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With a Limited Power of Attorney

Most problems with a limited power of attorney come from small details, not big ones. Check these points before you sign and hand the form to your agent. A quick review saves time later.

• Vague purposes. A line like "handle my affairs" does not say what the agent is doing. Name the task instead.
• Mismatched names. Write each name and address the way it appears on the person's ID.
• Unused lines. Draw a line through any purpose line you do not use.
• No copies. Give your agent, and any bank or office involved, a copy of the signed form.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is a limited power of attorney a good fit?

It fits a defined job, such as a one-time sale, a single transaction or a short stretch when you cannot handle something yourself. You list the task on the form, so the role is clear.

What is the difference between a limited and a general power of attorney?

A limited power of attorney covers the particular activities or events you list. A general power of attorney covers a broad range of actions.

Who are the principal and the agent?

The principal is the person who gives the authority. The agent, also called the attorney-in-fact, is the person who acts for the principal.

Can I fill in the form online?

Yes. Select Create My Document to answer a few questions and build your form online. You can also download the PDF and fill it in yourself.

What should I do with the form after I sign it?

Keep the signed original in a safe place. Give copies to your agent and to any bank or office where your agent will act for you.

Create a personalized Tennessee Limited Power of Attorney Form online now!

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General information, not legal or tax advice.

Mara Erlach

Writer & Attorney

Mara has been practicing estate planning and trust law in California since 2003, taking pride in helping clients of all backgrounds and asset profiles form a complete and customized estate plan. Her specialties are: estate planning, wills and trusts, trust and probate administration.