Power of Attorney in Ontario: Don’t Wait Until You Need It

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives someone the authority to act on your behalf. In Ontario, there are two main types. The first is a Power of Attorney for Property, which allows someone to manage your finances, such as paying bills, handling your bank accounts, or even selling property. The second is a Power of Attorney for Personal Care, which gives someone the right to make decisions about your health care, living arrangements, and personal well-being if you become unable to do so.

Many people believe that Powers of Attorney are only necessary for seniors, but that’s not true. Adults of all ages can benefit from having a POA in place, especially if they travel often, own property, or operate a business. It’s a simple but powerful tool to make sure your wishes are respected, even if you are temporarily or permanently unable to speak for yourself.

One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting too long to set up a Power of Attorney. If something unexpected happens and you lose the ability to make decisions, your loved ones could be forced to go through a long and costly court process just to get the legal right to help you. Financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government offices usually won’t accept instructions from anyone unless there’s a valid Power of Attorney. Preparing this document in advance avoids confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

While Ontario law does not require a POA to be notarized, many people choose to notarize their document to make it more credible and easier to use. Notarizing your Power of Attorney helps prove that it was signed voluntarily and that you were mentally capable at the time. It also gives added reassurance to banks, hospitals, and other third parties that the document is valid and trustworthy. At Dodo Notary, we offer in-person and online notarization services to make the process as convenient as possible for our clients.

You don’t need to wait until a crisis to create your POA. In fact, some of the best times to set one up include when you’re planning to travel, going through surgery or medical treatment, buying or selling real estate, or simply planning for the future. It’s also a good idea to review your Power of Attorney every few years, especially after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.

When Should You Create a Power of Attorney?

Here are some life moments when it’s smart to prepare a POA in Ontario:

• Planning to travel abroad for a long period

• Undergoing surgery or medical treatment

• Getting older or experiencing declining health

• Buying or selling real estate

• Owning a business

• Wanting to reduce stress on family in case of emergencies

We help people from all walks of life create and notarize Powers of Attorney. Our licensed professionals take the time to explain the process and answer your questions, so you feel confident and informed. Whether you already have a draft prepared or need help getting started, we’ll guide you through every step.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

One of the biggest mistakes we see at Dodo Notary in Brampton is waiting until there’s an emergency to think about legal planning. Here’s why early action is crucial:

• If you become mentally incapacitated without a Power of Attorney, your loved ones may need to go through a time-consuming and expensive court process to make decisions on your behalf.

• Banks, insurance companies, and government agencies often refuse to speak with anyone who isn’t officially authorized.

• Creating a POA while you’re of sound mind ensures your wishes are clearly documented and legally binding.

A Power of Attorney is not the same as a will. While a will comes into effect after you pass away, a POA only applies while you are alive. Once you are gone, your Power of Attorney becomes invalid and your will takes over. That’s why it’s important to have both documents in place to cover all situations.

In the end, creating a Power of Attorney is about being prepared and staying in control. It gives you the ability to choose who will make decisions for you if you ever can’t do it yourself. Don’t wait for a crisis. Take action today to protect yourself and the people you care about.

If you’re ready to create or notarize your Power of Attorney in Ontario, Dodo Notary is here to help. You can book an appointment online through our website or contact us directly for more information. We serve clients in Brampton and across Ontario, and we also offer online notary services for your convenience.