What the rule says
Iowa adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act effective July 1, 2014, codified at Iowa Code § 633B.101 et seq.
Default durability
An Iowa POA is durable by default — the agent's authority survives the principal's incapacity unless the document expressly states otherwise.
Specific powers
Under Iowa Code § 633B.201, certain powers require express authorization (gifts, beneficiary changes, trust modifications, etc.).
Third-party acceptance
Iowa law provides protections for third parties accepting properly executed POAs.
Execution requirements
A valid Iowa POA must be:
- Signed by the principal - Acknowledged before a notary public
Healthcare advance directive is separate
Iowa separates property and healthcare frameworks. Healthcare decisions require a separate Iowa Living Will and Power of Attorney for Health Care under Iowa Code §§ 144A and 144B.
What happens without a POA
If an Iowa resident becomes incapacitated without an executed durable POA, the family must seek conservatorship or guardianship under Iowa Code § 633.
What you can do about it
For Iowa residents:
- Execute a Uniform Power of Attorney. - Acknowledge before a notary. - Specifically enumerate hot powers if needed. - Designate a successor agent. - Coordinate with the Living Will and Healthcare POA. - Update older POAs.
Who this affects most
Iowa's POA framework is most consequential for Iowa adults without executed POAs.