Power of Attorney · Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Medical Power of Attorney (2026)
A Pennsylvania health care power of attorney must be dated and signed in front of two witnesses age 18 or older (20 Pa.C.S. §5452). Notarization is not required by Pennsylvania law, but it can help if the document is used in another state.
Free preview · PDF + Word · English + Spanish · No subscription
Pennsylvania medical power of attorney: key facts
- Official form
- The model in 20 Pa.C.S. §5471 is optional; any document meeting §5452 is valid.
- Witnesses
- Two witnesses, each 18 or older.
- Who cannot witness
- A person who signs on your behalf.
- Notary
- Optional ("Notarization of document is not required by Pennsylvania law").
- When it takes effect
- Only when you cannot participate in medical treatment decisions.
Official source: 20 Pa.C.S. §5452 (PA General Assembly) · 20 Pa.C.S. §5471 · Last reviewed: October 2026
DoneDoc is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. We recommend having your document reviewed by a licensed attorney in your state before signing.
Frequently asked questions
- Does a Pennsylvania health care POA need a notary?
- No. Two adult witnesses are required; notarization is optional.
- What do I receive?
- A ready-to-sign PDF and Word document (Health care power of attorney (20 Pa.C.S. Chapter 54)) filled with your answers, plus signing instructions for Pennsylvania.
- Can I get it in Spanish?
- Yes. You sign the English document and also receive a Spanish reference translation or summary and Spanish instructions.
- Is DoneDoc a law firm?
- No. DoneDoc provides self-help forms and does not give legal advice. We recommend having your document reviewed by a licensed attorney in your state before signing.
Other states
CaliforniaTexasFloridaNew York
Other Pennsylvania documents: Vehicle Power of Attorney