How To Make Someone Power of Attorney in Ohio (POA)

Life can change in an instant—what happens if you’re suddenly unable to make decisions for yourself? Granting someone Power of Attorney (POA) gives you control by choosing who can step in on your behalf. From handling finances to making medical choices, there are different types of POA for different needs. 

Having a Power of Attorney in place is a simple yet powerful way to protect your wishes and provide peace of mind for those you trust most. Keep reading to learn how to obtain an Ohio Power of Attorney if you live in this midwestern state.

What Is a Power of Attorney in Ohio?

A Power of Attorney in Ohio is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. Depending on the type you choose, this authority can cover financial matters, healthcare decisions, or both. It only takes effect under the conditions you specify—such as if you become unable to act for yourself—and ensures your wishes are carried out without delay or court involvement. 

Types of Power of Attorney in Ohio

There are several types of Power of Attorney, each designed for different situations—like managing finances or making healthcare choices. 

General POA 

A General POA gives your agent broad authority to manage financial, business, real estate, and legal matters on your behalf. In Ohio, the statutory form lists multiple powers you can grant—either all or specific ones you choose—and it stays valid until you revoke it or it terminates by law. 

Limited POA 

A Limited POA grants your agent authority over one specific task or for a brief period, such as selling a particular property or handling a transaction while you’re out of state. It ends automatically once the task is completed or the time expires. 

Durable POA 

A Durable POA remains in effect even if you become incapacitated (unless you revoke it). In Ohio, under the Uniform Power of Attorney Act, a POA is presumed durable unless it explicitly states otherwise. 

Medical POA (Healthcare Power of Attorney) 

Also called a Health Care POA (or durable POA for health care), this document lets your agent make medical decisions for you if you're unable. In Ohio, it only takes effect once a physician determines you lack capacity, and there are limits on refusal of life-sustaining treatment unless certain medical and procedural conditions are met. 

Springing POA 

A Springing POA “springs” into effect only if a specific event occurs, most often if you become incapacitated. In Ohio, you can create a springing POA by clearly stating the condition that triggers it, but it may require certification from a physician or another defined process before your agent’s authority begins.

Ohio Power of Attorney Requirements

The rules for setting up POA, including signing and witnessing requirements, can vary by state, so it’s important to follow Ohio’s Power of Attorney requirements. 

• Legal capacity: The person creating the POA (the “principal”) must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.

• Agent eligibility: The chosen agent must be a competent adult; Ohio does not allow minors to serve as agents.

• Written document: The POA must be in writing and signed by the principal.

• Signature rules: The principal must sign (or direct someone else to sign in their presence).

• Notarization or witnesses: Ohio law requires the POA to be either notarized or signed in front of two adult witnesses.

• Statutory form: Ohio provides an official statutory form for Financial (General/Durable) POAs under the Ohio Uniform Power of Attorney Act.

• Durability default: Unless the document states otherwise, a POA in Ohio is presumed to be durable—meaning it remains valid if the principal becomes incapacitated.

• Healthcare POA rules: For a Health Care POA, the agent’s authority only begins when a physician determines the principal cannot make decisions.

How to Obtain Power of Attorney in Ohio

1. Decide Which Type of Ohio Power of Attorney You Need

Start by identifying whether you need a General, Limited, Durable, Medical, or Springing POA. Each type serves a different purpose and follows Ohio-specific rules.

2. Pick a Trusted Agent

Choose a reliable adult who will act in your best interest. In Ohio, your agent must be competent and willing to carry out your instructions.

3. Complete the Official Power of Attorney Form Ohio

Ohio provides a statutory POA form for financial matters, while healthcare POAs use a separate document. Be clear about which powers you want to grant.

4. Sign, Notarize, and Witness the Document

In Ohio, your POA must be signed and either notarized or witnessed by two adults. This step makes your document legally valid.

5. Share Copies with Your Agent and Relevant Parties

Give signed copies to your agent, healthcare providers, financial institutions, or anyone who may need to honor the POA.

6. Review and Update as Needed

Life changes—your POA should too. Revisit your document periodically or after major events to keep it accurate and enforceable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating an Ohio POA

Avoid these common mistakes when creating an Ohio Power of Attorney: 

• Not choosing the right type of POA: Ohio recognizes different POAs (financial, medical, durable, limited). Picking the wrong one may leave important decisions uncovered.

• Overlooking proper execution: Ohio law requires POAs to be signed and either notarized or witnessed. Missing these steps can invalidate the document.

• Providing unclear or overly broad powers: Vague wording can cause disputes, while giving unrestricted authority without limits may invite abuse.

• Forgetting to update the document: Life changes like divorce, moving, or a new financial situation can make an old POA ineffective or risky.

• Relying on generic forms without customization: Every state has its own requirements. Using a one-size-fits-all template may leave gaps under Ohio law.

When Does a Power of Attorney End in Ohio?

A Power of Attorney ends at the time of your death, at which point Ohio probate can begin. It can also end if you revoke it, the court invalidates it, or if your agent is unavailable (whether deceased or unable to fill the obligations of the role). For these reasons, it is recommended to update your POA regularly, ensure you follow state-specific regulations and consider naming a backup agent.  

FAQs: 

How do I get a medical POA in Ohio?

To get a Medical Power of Attorney (POA) in Ohio, you’ll need to complete the state’s Health Care Power of Attorney form. This document lets you name a trusted person to make medical decisions if you can’t. Follow the steps listed above. Once signed, your Medical POA is legally binding in Ohio and will guide your care if you’re unable to make decisions yourself.

Can I use a generic POA form, or do I need the state of Ohio POA form?

You can use a generic POA form, but it could be risky. Ohio has specific legal requirements for Power of Attorney documents, and using the official Ohio POA form (or a state-specific version from a trusted provider) helps ensure your document is valid and accepted without issues.

Does an Ohio POA need to be notarized?

A state of Ohio POA does not need to be notarized, but it is often recommended to ensure the validity of your document. 

Can I have more than one agent in an Ohio POA?

Yes, Ohio allows you to name more than one agent in a Power of Attorney. You can appoint them to act jointly (make decisions together) or separately (each can act on their own). Just be clear in your document, unclear instructions can cause delays or disputes.

What is the difference between a durable POA and a medical POA in Ohio?

A Durable Power of Attorney in Ohio lets someone manage your financial or legal affairs and stays effective even if you become incapacitated. A Medical Power of Attorney is different—it only covers health care decisions if you can’t speak for yourself. Many people choose to have both so all areas of life are covered.

Set Up Your Ohio Power of Attorney Easily with Trust & Will

Creating a Power of Attorney is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. The right document ensures that your wishes are honored and that someone you trust can step in when it matters most. With Trust & Will, you don’t have to navigate Ohio’s requirements on your own for creating a will or POA. Our easy-to-use platform walks you through each step, helping you create a legally valid, state-specific estate plan that reflects your wishes. Start today and give yourself—and your family—the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared.

Trust & Will is an online service providing legal forms and information. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal advice.