Things you need to know about Special Power of Attorney.

Last updated on 24 January 2024

1. What is a Special Power of Attorney? 

A Special Power of Attorney ("SPA") allows a person (the “agent”) to decide on another person’s behalf (the “principal”). The principal grants the agent powers to handle the former's transactions (e.g. property, financial, legal). A Special Power of Attorney can cover a broad range of powers.

We also have a SPA customized for the following transactions:

• Special Power of Attorney to Buy Immovable Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Buy Movable Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Lease Immovable Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Lease Movable Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Sell Immovable Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Sell Property
• Special Power of Attorney to Transact with the BIR

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

A SPA is used to appoint another person to decide on your behalf. The SPA is generally used when the principal is unable to manage his transactions (e.g. the principal is abroad) and will need an agent to act on his behalf.

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

A SPA protects you by ensuring that your property, financial, legal and other matters are taken cared of by an agent even if you are unable to personally handle your matters.

4. What is the difference between a Special Power of Attorney and a General 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 General Power of Attorney instead, click here.

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

To create your SPA you’ll need the following minimum information:

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

6. How much is the document?

The document costs PHP 400 for a one-time purchase. Once purchased, you have unlimited use and revisions of this type of document.

You can also avail of Premium subscription at PHP 1,000 and get (a) unlimited use of our growing library of documents (from affidavits to contracts); and (b) unlimited use of our “Ask an Attorney” service, which lets you consult an expert lawyer anytime for any legal concern you have.