Helping a Parent Apply With Power of Attorney
Acting on a Parent's Behalf, Properly
JP Dauber · Licensed HECM Specialist
NMLS# 386298 · Published September 21, 2026
When power of attorney comes into play
Sometimes a parent who could benefit from a reverse mortgage needs help managing the process — due to health, mobility, or early cognitive decline. A durable power of attorney lets a trusted person act on their behalf.
The parent is still the borrower and must meet the eligibility requirements. The POA simply lets the agent sign and handle the paperwork.
What kind of POA is needed
Lenders generally require a durable power of attorney — one that remains valid even if the parent becomes incapacitated — that clearly grants authority over real estate and financial transactions.
A limited or springing POA may also work, but the language and timing matter. The lender and title company will review the document closely.
Key fact
Have the power of attorney reviewed before you start. Lenders and title companies scrutinize POA documents carefully, and a vague or improperly executed POA is one of the most common reasons an application stalls. An attorney can confirm it's solid up front.
Counseling still applies
The required HUD-approved counseling is not waived. Depending on the parent's situation, the counselor may want to speak with the parent directly, and the agent may participate as well.
If the parent's capacity to understand the loan is in question, additional documentation of competency may be required to protect everyone involved.
Capacity and protecting your parent
These safeguards exist for a reason: to make sure the loan reflects the parent's interests, not someone else's. If you are the agent, lean into that standard — the goal is your parent's wellbeing.
Keep clear records, act transparently with other family members, and use the loan for the parent's benefit. That protects them and you.
Get the documents in order first
Before applying, confirm the POA is durable, properly executed, and accepted in your state, and gather the parent's loan documents. Doing this first avoids delays later.
Helping a parent through this? Reach out and I will tell you exactly what the lender will need from the POA and how counseling will work.
Keep reading
The complete guide
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