What question should you ask the signer when using a power of attorney?

When using a power of attorney, it is essential to confirm that the principal is alive because a power of attorney only remains valid while the principal is living. If the principal has passed away, the authority granted under the power of attorney is terminated immediately. This verifies the legitimacy of the document and ensures that the signer has the right to act on behalf of the principal. Confirming the life status protects against potential legal issues or challenges that may arise from acting on a power of attorney that is no longer valid.

Though aspects such as the principal being present or the status of the document can be important in specific contexts, they do not carry the same weight as confirming whether the principal is alive. If the principal is not living, the power of attorney is ineffective regardless of its condition or the signer's presence. Thus, verifying that the principal is alive is a critical and foundational step when dealing with a power of attorney.