Make a Plan for Your Finances and Property

If you are detained or deported, it is important that you write down information about the household’s financial situation and leave precise instructions so that your loved ones or someone you trust knows what to do with your bank accounts, home, business, vehicles, and other assets in case you are detained or deported.

Planning ahead can help prevent missed payments, loss of property, or financial hardship for your family. For more information visit Appleseed Network Deportation Preparation Manual for Immigrant Families – Make a Plan to Protect Your Kids and Finances in the Face of Deportation.

Power of Attorney (POA), is a legal document that allows you to give another person (called your “agent”) authority to act on your behalf. For example: In Pennsylvania a POA may allow a friend or family member to close your bank account, sell your car or home, pay bills, or make decisions about your children’s health care or school enrollment (if specifically authorized) in your absence.

To be valid, a POA in Pennsylvania must be written, dated, signed, and witnessed by two people and a notary public. Please consult with an estate planning attorney about assigning a power of attorney to oversee your assets. This will make it easier for your loved ones and the person you designate as your agent to comply with your instructions.

Warning: If you do not specify a time for your Power of Attorney

If you have financial accounts, you want your designated agent to access, you should contact those financial institutions to determine whether they have their own POA forms. Although financial institutions should honor other POA forms, it is always best to use the forms they recommend.