A Minnesota General Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants authority to an appointed individual (known as the "agent" or "attorney-in-fact") to act on behalf of the principal in various financial and legal matters. The form used for this type of power of attorney in Minnesota is known as Form 11A. However, it is important to note that there are differences between the PRE and post-2005 versions of this form. Before the enactment of the Minnesota Uniform Power of Attorney Act in 2005, the pre-2005 Act General Power of Attorney Form 11A specified the powers and limitations granted to the agent in handling the principal's affairs. It allowed the principal to authorize the agent to manage financial transactions, handle real estate matters, make healthcare decisions, and even engage in litigation on the principal's behalf. The document also required the principal's signature, and in some cases, the presence of witnesses. The post-2005 Act General Power of Attorney Form 11A incorporates the changes brought about by the Minnesota Uniform Power of Attorney Act. This act introduced a standardized form to ensure consistency and safeguard against potential abuses. The form includes checkboxes that the principal can use to grant specific powers to the agent, such as the ability to buy or sell real estate, access financial accounts, manage investments, handle taxes, and make healthcare decisions. Additionally, the post-2005 act requires the agent to sign an acceptance of appointment, acknowledging their fiduciary duties and responsibilities. It is important to understand that there are other types of power of attorney forms available in Minnesota, aside from the General Power of Attorney Form 11A. Some of these include: 1. Limited Power of Attorney: This form grants the agent limited authority to carry out specific tasks on behalf of the principal. It allows flexibility by allowing the principal to define the scope and duration of the agent's powers. 2. Durable Power of Attorney: Unlike a regular power of attorney, a durable power of attorney remains valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated or unable to make decisions. This form is commonly used to plan for potential future incapacity. 3. Medical Power of Attorney: Also known as a healthcare power of attorney or a healthcare proxy, this form appoints an agent to make medical decisions on behalf of the principal if they become unable to do so. This form is especially important in scenarios where end-of-life care decisions may need to be made. In conclusion, a Minnesota General Power of Attorney — Form 11— - Pre and Post 2005 Act is a legal document that grants authority to an appointed agent to handle the principal's financial and legal matters. It is crucial to understand the changes brought about by the Minnesota Uniform Power of Attorney Act in 2005 and the various types of power of attorney forms available to meet specific needs.