A Power of Attorney (POA) is one of the most important legal documents a person can have. It gives someone you trust — called an agent — the power to make decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. This might include handling your finances, signing documents, or managing property.
But because a POA gives such significant authority, it’s vital to make sure it’s valid and being used correctly. If you’ve been given a power of attorney document or someone presents one to you, it’s completely normal to wonder if it’s legitimate. In Pennsylvania, there are clear steps you can take to verify it.
Why Verifying a Power of Attorney is Important
When a power of attorney isn’t properly prepared or verified, it can cause major problems. Banks may refuse to honor it, family members might challenge it, or worse — someone could misuse the authority it grants.
Verification helps you confirm that:
- The person claiming to have authority actually does.
- The document meets Pennsylvania’s legal standards.
- No fraud or alteration has taken place.
In short, verifying a POA protects both the person who created it (the principal) and the people or institutions relying on it. It’s a safeguard against misunderstandings and abuse of power.
The Steps to Verify a Power of Attorney
Verifying a power of attorney isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. Here’s how the process usually works:
Step 1: Confirm the Document’s Authenticity
Start by reviewing the document carefully. A valid POA should clearly name the principal (the person granting authority) and the agent (the person receiving it). It should also explain what powers are being given — whether broad control or limited authority for certain tasks.
Check that the document includes a date and a proper signature from the principal. If you only have a copy, ask to see the original or a certified copy from the notary or attorney who prepared it. Certified copies are often required by banks, courts, and other official offices.
Step 2: Check for Proper Notarization and Witnesses
In Pennsylvania, a power of attorney must be signed by the principal, witnessed by two people, and notarized to be legally valid.
That means the document should show:
- A notary public’s seal and signature.
- Two witnesses’ signatures.
- A date that matches all signatures.
The notary’s role is crucial — it confirms that the principal appeared in person, understood the document, and signed it willingly. If these elements are missing, the document may not hold up legally.
Step 3: Make Sure It Meets Pennsylvania Legal Requirements
Pennsylvania has specific rules for how a POA must be written and signed. Under Title 20, Chapter 56 of Pennsylvania law, every power of attorney must include two important parts:
- A Notice explaining the principal’s rights and responsibilities.
- An Acknowledgment section where the agent agrees to act honestly and in the principal’s best interests.
If either section is missing or incomplete, the document might not meet state requirements. A lawyer familiar with Pennsylvania’s Power of Attorney laws can quickly review it to make sure everything is in order.
Step 4: Review the Agent’s Authority
Next, look closely at what the POA actually allows the agent to do. Some powers of attorney are general, meaning the agent can act on almost any financial or legal matter. Others are limited, allowing authority only for specific actions — like selling a home or managing a bank account.
Make sure the action being taken matches what’s listed in the document. For example, if someone is trying to sell property using a POA that only allows financial management, it may not be valid for that purpose.
Step 5: Get Legal Advice if You’re Unsure
Even if a power of attorney looks legitimate, there may still be legal questions about how it’s being used or whether it was executed correctly. That’s when it helps to talk to a local attorney.
An experienced Pittsburgh attorney like Heather Noel at Kostrub Law Firm, PLLC can review the document, verify its authenticity, and explain exactly what powers it grants. Heather also helps families resolve issues where multiple people claim authority or where a POA is being challenged.
Legal Help for Power of Attorney in Pittsburgh & Cecil, PA
The rules for power of attorney are statewide, but it always helps to work with a local attorney who understands the courts and institutions in your area.
At Kostrub Law Firm, PLLC, Heather Noel assists clients across Pittsburgh and Cecil, PA with everything related to powers of attorney — from creating them to verifying or disputing their validity.
Having local guidance ensures that your document meets Pennsylvania law and that you have someone nearby who can step in quickly if problems arise.
How Kostrub Law Firm Can Help You Verify a Power of Attorney
If you’ve received a POA and aren’t sure what it means, or if you’re worried about whether it’s valid, Kostrub Law Firm can help. Heather Noel takes the time to explain each step of the verification process in plain language, so you know exactly what’s happening.
The firm assists with:
- Reviewing the document for accuracy and legal compliance.
- Checking notarization and witness details.
- Confirming whether the agent’s actions match their authority.
- Helping families update or revoke an outdated or invalid POA.
You can explore more about these services on the Legal Services Page.
Heather’s approach is professional yet personal — she knows that dealing with legal documents can feel intimidating, so she focuses on clear communication and practical solutions.
Get Trusted Help for Power of Attorney Verification
Verifying a power of attorney protects your loved ones, your assets, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re handling a family member’s affairs or managing your own legal documents, it’s always worth taking the time to confirm everything is valid.
If you need guidance on how to verify a power of attorney in Pennsylvania, reach out to Kostrub Law Firm, PLLC for local, trustworthy support.
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Serving Pittsburgh and Cecil, PA, attorney Heather Noel is ready to help you understand your legal documents and ensure your power of attorney is valid, secure, and recognized wherever it’s needed.