Power of Attorney in Missouri
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Missouri requires notarization and recognizes durable powers of attorney under the Uniform Power of Attorney Act.
How Missouri treats Power of Attorney
Missouri requires a power of attorney to be notarized to be valid and enforceable. The state follows the Uniform Power of Attorney Act, permitting durable powers that remain effective even if the principal becomes incapacitated, provided the document clearly expresses this intent. Missouri allows both immediate and springing powers of attorney. The state also recognizes healthcare powers of attorney as a separate document for medical decision-making authority.
The general definition of Power of Attorney
A legal document authorizing someone to act on your behalf in financial or medical decisions.
A power of attorney is a document you sign giving another person (called an agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to make decisions and sign documents for you. You can make it broad (covering all financial matters) or narrow (only for selling a specific property). It takes effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated, depending on what you choose.
Read the full Power of Attorney entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.