Requirements for a power of attorney are similar in most states, but some have special forms to fill out. To check whether or not your state has special forms for power of attorney, you can check here. If your situation is complicated, consider hiring an attorney to help you and your loved ones carry out the proper requirements for granting power of attorney. Usually, the document granting power of attorney must:  Clearly identify the principal (the person who is granting the power) Clearly identify the agent (the person who will have the specified powers) Specify exactly what legal acts the agent is entitled to perform Most states don't require government-written legal documents. However, in order to prevent any confusion and to make sure that both parties know exactly what authority is being granted, it's a good idea to use a state-issued form as a template. The specifics of the form will vary by state, and each state may have a different form for different powers. For example, Wisconsin provides different forms for a health care power of attorney and financial power of attorney. The form should include the full name of the “principal,” the person granting power of attorney. It should also name the "agent," the person to whom the power is being granted. Alternate agents may also be named, in the event that the first agent is unable or unwilling to act on his or her authority. Make sure that you clearly and specifically identify the powers that are being granted to the agent, when those powers will take effect, and when (if ever) those powers will cease to have an effect. This is also the space where you will include whether the document is durable or springing if either is applicable. This will prevent confusion.   For example, instead of saying that the agent “has power over the principal’s finances,” say that the agent “has the power to withdraw money and make payments from the principal’s three bank accounts: bank account X, bank account Y, and bank account Z.” If the power of attorney is durable, it's especially important to make sure that the principal and the agent are in agreement about what responsibilities and authorities are being transferred. Make sure that the principal and agent know that some powers cannot be conferred under state law. If the power of attorney purports to transfer a power under state law that cannot be transferred, the power of attorney is void as to that power. For instance, even if the principal and the agent agree, the agent cannot write or execute a will for the principal. Any such will is not valid. In some states, it is necessary to have the signing of the document witnessed by one or two people. If this is the case in your state, make sure witnesses are not only present but paying full attention as the agent and the principal sign the document. The witnesses should be comfortable testifying as to the document’s authenticity.  For instance, in Florida, a power of attorney document must be signed by two witnesses, whereas Utah does not require witnesses.  Check here to find out if your state requires a power of attorney document to be signed by witnesses. If you draw up a power of attorney that hasn't expired, but you no longer want it to be in effect, you can draw up this form according to your state's laws to have it invalidated. Talk with your attorney to make sure it's done correctly. You can find more information at: How to Revoke Power of Attorney
Check your state’s requirements. Download or write a power of attorney form. Name the parties. Name the powers granted. Note powers that a principal cannot confer. Gather witnesses. Prepare a Revocation of Power of Attorney if you change your mind.