Enduring Power of Attorney in British Columbia
In British Columbia, a Enduring Power of Attorney lets you appoint someone to manage your finances and property. A Representation Agreement covers your personal and health care decisions. Create both online with Livewill.
British Columbia Legal Context
Power of Attorney Law in British Columbia
Understanding the legal framework for your poa in BC.
British Columbia uses the term "Enduring Power of Attorney" for financial decision-making authority and "Representation Agreement" for health and personal care decisions. These documents are governed by provincial legislation and must meet specific British Columbia requirements to be legally valid.
Requirements
What You Need in British Columbia
Key requirements for a valid poa in BC.
- ✓Must be 16 years of age or older
- ✓Must be mentally capable at the time of signing
- ✓Financial POA is called "Enduring Power of Attorney" in British Columbia
- ✓Personal/health care POA is called "Representation Agreement" in British Columbia
- ✓The appointed attorney/representative must also be of legal age
- ✓Witnesses may be required depending on document type
How It Works
Create Your POA in British Columbia
A simple, guided process — done in minutes.
Choose Your Attorney
Select a trusted person to act as your attorney under a Enduring Power of Attorney in British Columbia. You can also name alternates.
Define the Scope
Specify what powers your attorney will have — from managing bank accounts to making healthcare decisions via a Representation Agreement.
Download & Sign
Review your documents, download the PDF, and sign with the required witnesses to make it legally effective in British Columbia.
FAQ
Power of Attorney in British Columbia — Common Questions
What is a Enduring Power of Attorney in British Columbia?
A Enduring Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone (called an "attorney") to manage your financial affairs, such as banking, paying bills, and managing investments, on your behalf. This is particularly important if you become mentally incapacitated.
What is a Representation Agreement in British Columbia?
A Representation Agreement in British Columbia allows you to appoint someone to make decisions about your personal care, including healthcare, housing, nutrition, and hygiene, if you become unable to make those decisions yourself.
Can I have both a financial and personal care POA in British Columbia?
Yes, and it is highly recommended. In British Columbia, the financial POA (Enduring Power of Attorney) and the personal care POA (Representation Agreement) are separate documents. You can appoint the same person or different people for each role.
When does a Power of Attorney take effect in British Columbia?
You can choose when your POA takes effect. An "enduring" or "continuing" power of attorney remains valid even if you become mentally incapacitated. You can also specify that it only activates upon incapacity, which is common in British Columbia.
Can I cancel a Power of Attorney in British Columbia?
Yes, as long as you are mentally capable, you can revoke a Power of Attorney at any time in British Columbia. You should do so in writing and notify the appointed attorney and any institutions that have a copy.
More Services
Other Services in British Columbia
Explore our full suite of estate planning tools for British Columbia residents.
Will
Create your Will online, compliant with the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). Free and guided.
Enduring Power of Attorney
Set up a Enduring Power of Attorney and Representation Agreement to protect your financial and personal affairs.
Expat Will
Living abroad? Protect your British Columbia assets with an Expat Will that complies with local legislation.
Advance Directive
Document your healthcare wishes in a Advance Directive so your medical preferences are honoured.
Farewell Planning
Plan your memorial or celebration of life in British Columbia. Document every detail for your family.
Digital Vault
Securely store your British Columbia estate documents, passwords, and digital assets in one encrypted location.
Ready to create your poa in British Columbia?
Start now — create your legal documents online with Livewill.