General Power of Attorney | Principal | Agent

How to use a General Power of Attorney to appoint an agent

A General Power of Attorney allows a person to act on another person’s behalf. The agent is given powers to handle the property, financial, legal and other matters of the principal.

Last updated on 24 January 2024

1. What is a General Power of Attorney?

A General Power of Attorney allows a person (the “agent”) to act on another person’s behalf (the “principal”). The agent is given powers to handle the property, financial, legal and other matters of the principal.


2. When do you need a General Power of Attorney?

A General Power of Attorney is necessary to appoint another person to act on your behalf. It is normally used when the principal is unable to handle his affairs and will need an agent to act on his behalf.


3. How can a General Power of Attorney protect you?

A General Power of Attorney protects you by ensuring that your property, financial, legal and other matters are handled even if you are unable to do so.  It ensures continuity in the management of your affairs even if something were to happen to you. 


4. What is the difference between a General Power of Attorney and a Special Power of Attorney?

Both powers of attorney are used to appoint an agent to act on the principal’s behalf.  However they are different in terms of the powers granted. A General Power of Attorney is used to grant the agent broad powers to handle the principal’s affairs. On the other hand, a Special Power of Attorney is used to grant the agent limited or specific powers. 

If you need a Special Power of Attorney instead, click here.


5. What information do you need to create a General Power of Attorney?

To create your General Power of Attorney you’ll need the following minimum information:

  1. The type of principal (i.e. individual or business) as well as name and details (i.e. nationality and address).
  2. The type of agent (i.e. individual or business) as well as name and details (i.e. nationality and address).
  3. The powers to be granted to the agent.

6. How much is the document?

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