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In the state of Vermont, power of attorney forms are only legally recognized if accompanied by the signature of a state-appointed notary public. This is a mandatory requirement, even though the document will stay in possession of the involved parties.

When filling out Vermont power of attorney forms, principals will first examine the guidelines and recommendations pointed out in the power of attorney laws. Each different POA form comes with a structure that should be followed as closely as possible. The state of Vermont Statutes Chapter 123, Section 3501-3508 point out specific legislation which specifies that:

  • The appointed attorney-in-fact will not have the right to make decisions concerning the principal’s life in a situation where life support is required. They can, however, make medical decisions if the proper power of attorney form is filled out.
  • When drawing up the proxy, principals should use Vermont Statute guidelines, staying as close to the format as possible.
  • If the principal wishes to grant the attorney-in-fact the right to make medical decisions, they must designate health care decisions over to them using the proper forms.
  • The principal has the right to terminate a power of attorney at any time.

Why Use a POA Form in Vermont

Power of attorney forms are used for several reasons, all depending on the principal’s wishes and needs. Some cases are direr than others, involving terminally ill persons or those at risk of becoming mentally disabled from deteriorating diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Vermont power of attorney forms are not only used in life-threatening cases and can sometimes help in situations involving finances, taxes, or the purchase of a property.

One thing is for sure about life—it is unpredictable. We never know what will happen, and life can change in just a matter of seconds. Appointing a power of attorney early on can help give the principal a sense of security, knowing that if an accident is to happen, their wishes and desires will be fulfilled by their chosen and trusted attorney-in-fact.

Vermont Power of Attorney Forms

The type of power of attorney form that principals should use varies greatly on their circumstances and the goals. Some last for only a short period while others hold effect even if the principal has become disabled in any way, shape, or form. A few of the most common Vermont power of attorney forms are:

General Power of Attorney

Using a general POA, principals can appoint someone to handle their financial and business-related matters. This type of POA is only valid as long as the principal is in good health and will lose its validity if the principal is to become disabled or die.

Durable Power of Attorney

Just like the general POA, a durable POA grants the attorney-in-fact control of monetary affairs. One key difference in a durable POA is that it will remain valid if the principal becomes disabled. This is likely the case used if someone is elderly or at risk for a deteriorating mental disease.

Limited Power of Attorney

Using this type of POA, principals can specify the exact terms that the appointed attorney-in-fact can control. These include temporarily needed services dealing with mortgages, taxes, or even business-related matters that require a professional.

Medical Power of Attorney

A medical power of attorney is also referred to as an “advanced directive.” Using this form, the principal can pass the responsibility to make medical-based decisions over to the attorney-in-fact, both minor and severe. These are mostly used in cases when the principal is terminally ill, fighting cancer, or works in a high-risk job.

Minor Child Power of Attorney

In some cases, parents are called out of the country for an extended period. This could be due to military requests or other business that requires their presence. If this is the case, parents can use this form to pass guardianship over to a trusted individual to watch over their child.

Tax Power of Attorney

Using a tax power of attorney (Form PA-1), Vermont citizens can select an attorney-in-fact to handle any tax-related documents. This authority could include the preparation and filing of annual tax documents as well. In most cases, principals choose an accountant or a certified tax preparer, taking precautions to ensure that paperwork is filled out and filed correctly. If any fines are due as per faults in paperwork, all responsibility falls to the principal and is their sole responsibility to pay.

Other Vermont Forms By Type