Ohio Power of Attorney

Not for the document to be valid, but it is recommended: a notarized signature is presumed genuine, which makes banks and others more likely to accept it. Ohio requires only the principal's signature on a power of attorney, but notarizing it makes the signature presumed genuine and is required if the power will be used for real estate.

None. Ohio does not require witnesses for a power of attorney.

Yes. The Uniform Law Commission lists the enactment in 2012.

They come from Ohio Rev. Code 1337.25, Ohio Rev. Code 1337.04 and Uniform Law Commission, Power of Attorney Act enactment history. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.

A general power of attorney lets your agent handle almost any financial or legal matter you could handle yourself, such as banking, real estate, taxes and investments. A limited (or special) power of attorney only covers the specific powers or transactions you list, and your agent cannot act outside them.

A durable power of attorney keeps working if you become mentally incapacitated. A non-durable power of attorney ends at that point, which is often exactly when your family needs it. Many people choose a durable power of attorney for that reason. Some states treat a power of attorney as durable unless it says otherwise, and others require specific language.

A springing power of attorney only takes effect if you become incapacitated, usually confirmed in writing by one or more physicians. It gives you more control while you are well, but your agent may face delays getting the written determination and convincing banks to accept it. Some states limit or do not allow springing powers.

Choose someone you trust completely with your money and who is organized and willing to keep careful records. Many people choose a spouse, adult child, sibling or close friend. Naming at least one successor agent helps if your first choice cannot serve.

Most states require or strongly encourage notarization, and banks and title companies usually will not accept a power of attorney without it. A notarized signature is generally required if the agent will deal with real estate. Some states also require one or two witnesses. Check the signing rules for your state.

Not under this document. It covers financial and legal matters only. To name someone to make health care decisions, use a separate health care power of attorney or advance directive, often combined with a living will.

It ends when you revoke it, when you die, when an end date you set arrives, or when its purpose is completed. A non-durable power of attorney also ends if you become incapacitated. A court can also limit or end it. After your death, your executor, not your agent, handles your estate.

While you have capacity, you can revoke it at any time by signing a written revocation and giving a copy to your agent and to any bank or business that has a copy of the original. If the power of attorney was recorded with a county office, the revocation should usually be recorded there too.

An agent must act in your best interest and generally cannot benefit personally from your property unless the document expressly allows it. This document lets you decide whether the agent is paid, whether gifts are allowed, and whether the agent may be among the people who receive gifts.