Q. Is it possible for an Agent to steal my money and property?

A. Yes. A Principal may want to authorize transfers or gifts of property for estate planning and other valid purposes. New statutory short-form Powers of Attorney in New York State permit Agents to make gifts to members of the Principal’s family, if the Principal so authorizes in the Power of Attorney. The Principal can also customize a Power of Attorney to permit the Agent to make gifts to non-family members.