Medical Power of Attorney / Advance Directive
Name someone to make healthcare decisions if you can't, and record your care wishes. These forms are state-specific and use witnesses, a notary, or both — pick your state.
What it is
A medical (healthcare) power of attorney, healthcare proxy, or advance directive lets you appoint a healthcare agent and state your treatment preferences. Each state has its own form and its own rule about whether it needs witnesses, a notary, or either.
Who needs it
Anyone doing healthcare or estate planning, or preparing for a hospitalization or procedure.
Choose your state's form
- Texas — Medical Power of Attorney (HHSC)PDF ↓
- California — Advance Health Care Directive (Prob. Code §4701)PDF ↓
- New York — Health Care Proxy (DOH-1430)PDF ↓
Need a state that isn't listed yet? Upload your state's form on the start page and we'll handle the notarization and delivery.
How it works
- 1Pick your state's form below — healthcare-directive requirements are set by state law.
- 2Check whether your state requires witnesses, a notary, or both; arrange witnesses before your session if needed.
- 3Notarize online where allowed, then give copies to your agent and your healthcare providers.
Common questions
Do healthcare directives need a notary or witnesses?
It depends on the state. Some accept two witnesses, some require a notary, and some allow either. The form itself states the requirement — follow the signature block for your state.
These are blank, publicly-available documents provided for your convenience. SignSealShip is a technology platform, not a law firm, and does not choose, complete, or review forms for you or give legal advice. You are responsible for selecting and completing the correct form for your situation and for confirming the receiving agency, court, or institution accepts it. If you are unsure which form you need or how to fill it out, consult a licensed attorney.
This form reproduces a state's statutory form text and is specific to that state. Statutory forms are revised over time and acceptance rules vary by county, institution, and underwriter — verify the current requirements for your state before relying on it.
Blank form published by State statutory form. Confirm the current version at Your state department of health.