Power of Attorney in BC: Enduring Power of Attorney, Representation Agreements and How to Sign

In British Columbia, an enduring power of attorney lets an adult name someone to manage their financial affairs (business, property and legal matters), and it continues if they lose capacity. Health and personal care decisions need a separate representation agreement (section 9, or section 7 which also covers routine finances). An enduring power of attorney must be signed in front of two witnesses, or one if the witness is a BC lawyer or notary (Power of Attorney Act, s. 16, checked October 2026).

Maybe Mom lives in Victoria and you're in Ontario, or Dad's memory is slipping and the bank keeps asking for "authorization". BC's system has more pieces than other provinces, which is why families get stuck. Once you see what each document does, it's a short list.

Which document covers what in BC?

Our take: For most parents, the pair to make is an enduring power of attorney and a section 9 representation agreement. Add an advance directive if they have clear wishes about treatment at the end of life.

How do you sign an enduring power of attorney in BC?

• The adult signs and dates it in front of two witnesses, who sign in the adult's presence. One witness is enough if they're a lawyer or a member of the Society of Notaries Public of BC.
• Can't witness: a named attorney; the attorney's spouse, child or parent; anyone under 19; and someone who can't understand how the adult communicates without help. Employees or agents of the attorney are also restricted.
• Each attorney must also sign before the document takes effect.

The province publishes standard forms, and using them is optional.

When does an enduring power of attorney take effect in BC?

On the latest of: the date the adult and the attorney have both signed; a start date written in the document; or the date a triggering event named in the document (often loss of capacity) is confirmed.

What can't an attorney do in BC?

• Make or change a will for the adult.
• Be paid, unless the document expressly allows it and sets the amount or rate.
• Make gifts or loans, except within limits in the Act or the document.
• Hand over decision-making, except some investment matters.

The attorney must put the adult's personal and health care needs first when spending their money, which matters when it's paying for home care or a retirement home.

What if there's no power of attorney in BC?

Family may have to apply to court to be appointed, a process that takes time and costs money, and the Public Guardian and Trustee of BC may become involved. If you suspect an adult is being abused or financially exploited, you can report it to the Public Guardian and Trustee of BC.

How do you keep it working?

• Give the bank a copy early, while your parent can confirm it.
• Keep records of every transaction, and keep your parent's money separate from your own.
• Review the documents after a move, a diagnosis or a death in the family, and see our estate planning guide for the will. When the time comes, probate fees in BC explains what the estate will pay.