However, it is best (and we highly recommend) to have two disinterested witnesses AND a notary sign your power of attorney. Some states only require the signatures of two witnesses OR a notary. Once you are sure you have read the document and indicated your healthcare choices, simply sign and date where applicable and follow the witnessing requirements below. Initialing is required to both indicate your choice and to prove your wishes in the event there is ever a dispute.

Not only are you delegating important authority to your agent that you need to be aware of, but there are many places that require you to initial next to your choices. It is very important that you read the ENTIRE document before signing. Executing your Healthcare Power of Attorney You can also elect to designate your primary physician and your wishes concerning organ donation and burial.

In addition, LegalNature's healthcare power of attorney allows you the option to appoint a guardian of your person or estate should you need one. If you are unsure, it is best to appoint someone who does not fall into these categories and someone you trust to carry out your wishes no matter what. Many states prevent you from appointing your physician or an employee of your healthcare provider as your agent. In addition, read your document for any additional state-specific requirements. Your healthcare agent needs to be at least 18 years old and mentally competent to follow your directions. You can also use LegalNature's living will form, which includes a healthcare power of attorney in it, to specify your wishes concerning the treatment you receive if you become too sick to speak for yourself. Your agent is legally required to follow your directions listed in the document as well as any other wishes you communicate to him or her. In your state, this person may be called your agent, proxy, representative, or something similar. Even if you are still healthy now, it is smart to protect yourself in case something should happen to you. It is important to have a healthcare power of attorney if you have been diagnosed with a serious illness. Use our healthcare power of attorney to designate someone you trust to make important healthcare decisions on your behalf.

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