The Power in Power of Attorney

Tammy never thought she would need legal documents to help her father pay his electric bill. But then came one stroke. And then, a week later, there was another.

They both happened suddenly. One day, he was driving to his son's home to see his new granddaughter. The next, he was in a hospital bed, unable to speak clearly or sign his name. After being placed in a medically induced coma to recover from the first stroke, the second one hit. Bills started piling up. His mortgage payment was due. The insurance paperwork needed answers. Tammy was willing to help, but legally, her hands were tied.

The bank couldn’t let her access his account. The utility company wouldn’t speak with her. Medical procedures needed approval. The hospital offered a simple solution. They asked: “Do you have Power of Attorney?” She didn’t. And because her father hadn’t created one in advance, Tammy had to go through the courts to become his legal guardian — a process that took time, money, and emotional energy — all during a medical crisis.

A Power of Attorney could’ve changed everything.

So, what is a Power of Attorney (POA)?

A POA is a simple document that allows someone you trust to act on your behalf if you’re unable to. It can be limited or broad, temporary or permanent. But the key is: it must be signed and notarized while you still have the capacity to make decisions. It’s one of those things people tend to put off... until it’s too late.

Tammy’s story has a hopeful ending. She eventually gained legal authority to help her dad. And today, with my help, she encourages others to get their paperwork in order before something happens.

As a notary, my job is not to explain laws (because that would be illegal). However, I can tell my clients and the people I know and love about urgent situations, like Tammy's, and relay the possibility of it occurring to them. Because at the end of every document, signature, and stamp, there’s a family like Tammy’s, trying to make sure the person they love gets the best care possible without worrying about their bills.