[MO] Do I need two witnesses for a power of attorney if my form only has one signature line?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand how confusing it can be to navigate legal forms. Can you tell me what specific powers you intend to grant in the Power of Attorney (POA) form?

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you already signed the form, or is it still in the process of being completed?

TJ, Esq.

Hello! My name is TJ and I’m an attorney. Thanks so much for the opportunity to assist you! I understand how important your legal question is, and I’m giving it my full attention. I’ll share my initial thoughts shortly, and I may also ask for a few additional details. That information will help me understand your situation more clearly so I can offer a more complete and helpful answer.

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TJ, Esq.

In Missouri, a durable power of attorney for financial matters typically requires notarization but not witnesses. If your form requires two witnesses, it might be designed for a different purpose, like a healthcare directive. The form you have may not be the right one for what you need.

Does the form specify what type of POA it is? And are you looking to give your sister authority to act while she's still able to, or after she becomes incapacitated?

TJ, Esq.

In Missouri, a financial POA just needs to be notarized, not witnessed. If your form requires two witnesses, it's probably not the right one for what you need. You likely paid for a form that's either designed for a different state or a different type of document.

The good news is you don't need to buy another form. Missouri has a specific statutory financial POA form that works perfectly for what your sister needs. It's simpler than what you bought and only requires notarization.

Is your sister able to sign the form herself right now, or would she need to sign it at the hospital?

TJ, Esq.

You need Missouri's statutory financial POA form. It's called the "Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Matters" and it's the official form under Missouri law. This form only requires notarization, not witnesses, so it's perfect for your situation. (MO Rev Stat § 404.705)

Since you're meeting at the hospital at noon with the notary arriving at 2 PM, you have time to get this form. You can search online for "Missouri statutory durable power of attorney for financial matters" and download it for free. Print it out, bring it with you, and your sister can sign it in front of the notary.

Your sister should sign where it says "principal" and you'll sign where it says "attorney in fact." The notary will handle the rest.

Does that make sense? And do you have access to print before your noon meeting?

TJ, Esq.

You're welcome, Debra! You've got this. Print it out, bring it with you, and you'll be all set. Your sister will be taken care of. Good luck with everything today.

TJ, Esq.

You’re very welcome, and I’m happy I could help!