I Did My Powers of Attorney Years Ago — Should I Redo Them?

Power of attorney documents are vital tools in your estate plan — but if you created your financial and health care POAs years ago, you might wonder whether they still do the job. After all, you planned ahead — isn’t that enough?

The short answer: you should review and possibly update your power of attorney documents regularly. While they might still be legally valid, they may no longer be effective or reflect your current wishes. Here’s why a review — and potentially a redo — is often a smart move.

1. Laws Change

Each state has its own laws governing power of attorney documents, and those laws occasionally change. An older document may still technically work, but banks, hospitals, or government agencies may be reluctant to accept it — especially if it’s based on outdated statutes or uses older terminology.

In Arizona, for example, updates to the state power of attorney laws and form language over the years make older documents less familiar to institutions that must rely on them. Updating your POAs can help ensure they’ll be accepted without hesitation.

2. Institutions Are Cautious

Even if your documents are legally sound, many financial institutions, title companies, and hospitals may hesitate to accept a power of attorney that’s more than 5–7 years old. Some have internal policies that flag older documents as “stale,” especially if they’ve never been used before.

A fresh POA document removes doubt. It reassures institutions that your agent’s authority is current and intentional.

3. Your Relationships May Have Changed

Think about who you named as your financial agent or health care proxy. Are they still the best people for the job? Are they still living, capable, and nearby? Have you had falling-outs, divorces, or remarriages?

If you wouldn’t trust the same people today — or if your backup agents are no longer available — it’s time to update your documents.

4. Your Wishes May Have Evolved

Your thoughts about life-sustaining care, financial management, or long-term planning may have changed over the years. A modernized health care directive or living will can express your preferences more clearly and reflect newer options for treatment and care.

5. You’ve Moved to Another State

Power of attorney documents are state-specific. If you created yours in a different state than where you now live, it’s worth updating them to reflect your new state’s format and laws. This avoids confusion and ensures easier recognition.

Bottom Line: Don’t Let Your POAs Get Outdated

Your power of attorney documents are some of the most important pieces of your estate plan. They allow someone to help you when you can’t help yourself — whether due to an accident, illness, or incapacity.

At a minimum, review your powers of attorney every 3–5 years. Update them if: