Can a Power of Attorney Be Used to Open a Post Office Box and Pay Bills?
Full Question:
situationPrincipal went to hospital and then to nursing home it has been determined he can not live alone anymore. Can the 'California General Powers of Attorney' form be used by agent for opening up a PO box in principals name and retrieving mail to pay bills
02/07/2011 |
Category: Power of Attorney |
State: California |
#24176
Answer:
As long as the power of attorney is properly made by a principal who has mental capacity, the power of attorney may be used to collect and pay bills. The principal must have mental capacity to make or revoke the power of attorney at the time of signing. Legal capacity generally means to have an understanding of the nature of the action and its consequences. When a person is incapacitated, she is unable to sign a will, codicil to a will, power of attorney, or a revocation of the same. We suggest discussing his mental capacity to sign a contract with his physician.
