Has your Power of Attorney (POA) been rejected by your bank because it’s “too old?” This predicament is more common than you might think. As a Long Beach Estate Lawyer, I often field questions about this issue, so I’d like to shed some light on why this happens and what you can do about it.
Stale-Dated Power of Attorney
One reason your bank may reject your POA is because of its age. Banks and other financial institutions may deem a POA to be “stale” if it was executed several years ago. They fear that the document may no longer reflect your current wishes or circumstances.
Institutional Policies
Different banks and financial institutions have their own internal policies regarding POAs. Some are more stringent and may reject a POA if it’s beyond a certain age. Often, this can be anywhere between 12 to 24 months old.
Taking Preventive Action
Here’s what you can do to ensure your POA is accepted when you need it:
- Review and Update Regularly: You should periodically review your POA and other estate planning documents to ensure they are up-to-date and reflect your current situation and wishes.
- Understand Institutional Policies: Make it a point to understand your bank’s policies regarding POAs. The best way to do this is to contact them directly and inquire about their guidelines.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you’re unsure about the validity of your POA, consult with an experienced Long Beach estate lawyer. They can help ensure your POA meets all legal requirements and will be accepted when necessary.
Getting Help
Keeping your estate planning documents current is crucial to avoiding such issues. If you’re facing problems with a rejected Power of Attorney, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Our team of Long Beach Estate Lawyers is here to help guide you through this process. You can reach out to our law firm at 310-782-6322 for more information or assistance.