Power of Attorney Notary

Professional notarization of power of attorney documents in Greenville County, SC. S. Clark Notary ensures your POA documents are properly executed to meet South Carolina's legal requirements.

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Types of Power of Attorney

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants one person — the agent or attorney-in-fact — the authority to act on behalf of another person — the principal — in financial, medical, or legal matters. There are several types of POA, each with different scopes and purposes:

General Power of Attorney

Grants broad authority to the agent to handle a wide range of financial and legal matters on behalf of the principal. This type of POA becomes invalid if the principal becomes incapacitated.

Durable Power of Attorney

Similar to a general POA, but remains in effect even if the principal becomes mentally incapacitated. This is the most common type of POA and is essential for long-term planning. Under South Carolina law (SC Code Section 62-8-104), a durable POA must be signed in the presence of two witnesses and a notary public.

Healthcare Power of Attorney

Authorizes the agent to make medical decisions on behalf of the principal when the principal is unable to do so. This is often paired with an advance directive or living will to provide comprehensive healthcare planning.

Limited (Special) Power of Attorney

Grants authority for a specific transaction or time period only. For example, a limited POA might authorize someone to sign real estate documents on your behalf at a closing while you are out of state.

Springing Power of Attorney

Does not take effect until a specific event occurs, such as the principal becoming incapacitated. This type requires careful drafting by an attorney to define the triggering conditions clearly.

South Carolina Requirements for POA Notarization

South Carolina has specific legal requirements for the execution of power of attorney documents. Under the South Carolina Uniform Power of Attorney Act (SC Code Title 62, Article 8), a durable power of attorney must be:

Signed by the principal (or by another person in the principal’s conscious presence and at the principal’s direction)

Witnessed by two or more competent witnesses

Acknowledged before a notary public

The principal must present a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. The notary verifies the principal's identity, confirms they are signing willingly and understand the document, and applies the notarial seal. Without proper notarization, a POA may not be recognized by banks, healthcare providers, or courts — which can create serious problems when the document is needed most.

Why a Mobile Notary is Ideal for Power of Attorney

Many individuals who need a power of attorney are elderly, homebound, hospitalized, or otherwise unable to easily travel to a notary office. This is exactly why mobile notary services are so valuable for POA documents. Susan Clark travels to the signer's location — whether it is their home, a hospital room, a nursing home, or an assisted living facility — to complete the notarization.

For families dealing with aging parents, sudden medical events, or time-sensitive financial matters, having a mobile notary who can arrive the same day makes all the difference. Susan is available 7 days a week by appointment and frequently accommodates urgent requests for POA notarizations throughout Greenville County and Upstate SC.

Why Choose S. Clark for POA Notarization?

Durable, limited, healthcare, and financial POA notarization

Verification of signer identity and willingness per SC law

Mobile service to homes, hospitals, attorney offices, and more

Experience with SC-specific POA requirements and formatting

Witness services available if required by the document

SC notary fee of $5 per signature plus separate travel fee

Power of Attorney FAQ

Does a power of attorney need to be notarized in South Carolina?

Yes. Under South Carolina law, a durable power of attorney must be signed in the presence of two witnesses and a notary public. Without proper notarization, the POA may not be recognized by financial institutions, healthcare providers, or courts.

Can you notarize a power of attorney at a hospital?

Absolutely. Susan Clark frequently provides bedside notarization for power of attorney documents at hospitals and care facilities throughout Greenville County. The signer must be conscious, willing, and aware of the document they are signing under SC notary law.

What do I need for a power of attorney notarization?

The principal (person granting power) needs a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID and the completed POA document. South Carolina requires two witnesses for a durable POA, so you should arrange for witnesses to be present. Susan can serve as the notary but cannot also serve as a witness.

Can you help me draft a power of attorney document?

No. As a notary public, Susan cannot provide legal advice or draft legal documents. We recommend consulting with a South Carolina attorney to prepare your power of attorney document. Once the document is prepared, Susan can notarize it at your convenience.

How much does it cost to notarize a power of attorney?

South Carolina notary fees are capped at $5 per notarial act per signature. A power of attorney typically requires one notarization. A separate travel fee applies for mobile appointments. Contact us at 404-295-3000 for a complete quote.

Ready to Get Your Documents Notarized?

Call us now or schedule an appointment. Available 7 days a week across Greenville County — we come to you.

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SC notary fee: $5 per notarial act • Travel fee quoted upfront • No hidden charges