Death of the Principal
Section 111 of the Uniform Power of Attorney Act provides that the power of attorney terminates when the principal dies. This rule is followed in all states. For example, Florida laws state that a power of attorney expires upon the principal’s death. In this situation, the agent no longer has authority to act on behalf of the principal, and the principal’s successors take over the management of his affairs.
Validation of Agent's Actions
In some situations the agent may not know of the principal’s death and may continue to act under the power of attorney, for example, by paying bills or signing documents. If the agent does not know that the principal has died, the law generally allows him to continue acting as agent until he is notified of the death. For example, Chapter 1337.091 of the Ohio Code states that if an agent carries out his duties without knowing that the principal has died, his actions remain valid, provided that he acts in good faith.
Death of the Agent
The death of the agent also terminates the power of attorney. If the agent dies, the principal must sign an additional power of attorney, giving authority to another agent to deal with his affairs. Section 111 of the Uniform Power of Attorney Act provides that the power of attorney ends when the agent dies, unless the document provides for either a co-agent or a successor agent.
Co-Agent or Successor Agent
According to the Michigan State Bar, it’s good practice to include in a power of attorney the name of someone who can continue as agent if the original agent dies or becomes unable to carry out his duties. This can be done either by appointing two co-agents to act together or by appointing a successor agent if the original agent dies.
