Authorization Letter Sample

1. What is letter of authorization?

A letter of authorization (also sometimes called an authorization letter) is a formal document that grants someone permission to act on your behalf in a specific situation. Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:

Purpose:

Delegating Authority: You, as the grantor, are authorizing another person (the agent) to take actions you’d otherwise need to do yourself.
Official Proof: It serves as clear evidence for third parties (like banks, medical institutions, or businesses) that the person has your express permission.

Common Scenarios:

Financial Matters: Picking up a check, signing documents at a closing, accessing accounts.
Medical Decisions: Giving consent for treatment on behalf of a minor or incapacitated person.
Travel: Allowing a child to travel with another adult.
Collecting Items/Documents: Picking up packages, school transcripts, etc.
Representing You: Acting as your proxy in a legal matter or signing contracts while you’re away.

Key Components:

Your Information: Full name, address, contact details.
Agent’s Information: Name, address, and any identifying information (like a driver’s license number) if relevant.
Specific Actions Granted: Detail exactly what the agent is authorized to do.
Time Period: Include validity dates (start and end), if applicable.
Signatures: Both you and the agent must sign for it to be official.
Notarization: May be required for high-stakes situations (legal matters, financial transactions).

Important Notes:

Not Power of Attorney: This is for specific, limited actions. Power of Attorney gives much broader legal authority.
Liability: You generally remain liable for the agent’s actions under your authorization.
Revocable: You can usually revoke a letter of authorization at any time.

Where to Find Templates:

Online: Websites dedicated to legal forms often have free, customizable templates like printableall.com.
Your Institution: The bank, school, etc., requiring the letter may have their own form.

2. How to write authorization letter?

Here are the steps on how to write an authorization letter:

Headings

In the top left corner, include your date (month, day, and year). On the right side, include the recipient’s name, title (if applicable), and contact information (mailing address)

Salutation

Begin with a formal salutation, such as “Dear [Recipient Name],”

Introduction

State the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph. Briefly introduce yourself and mention the person you are authorizing to act on your behalf. Here’s an example: “I am writing to authorize [Agent Name], [Agent’s relationship to you, e.g., my son] to [brief description of the action being authorized].”

Specific Permissions

Clearly specify the actions you are authorizing the agent to take. Be as detailed as possible to avoid any confusion. Here are some questions to consider when writing this section:

+ What specific tasks or decisions can the agent make?

+ Are there any limitations on the agent’s authority?

+ Is there a time limit on this authorization?

Signature

Include a line for your signature and your printed name below it. You may also want to include your contact information (phone number, email address) below your signature.

Optional: Signature Witness

Including a witness signature can add an extra layer of verification, especially if the authorization letter is for a significant matter. If you do include a witness, have them sign and print their name below your signature, along with the date they signed.

Here’s a sample of what a completed authorization letter might look like:

August 10, 2023

Jane Doe 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345

John Smith ABC Bank 456 Elm Street Anytown, CA 12345

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to authorize [Agent Name], my son, to access my bank account ending in [last four digits of account number] at your bank. He can view account information, make deposits, and withdraw funds up to [$ amount] per day. This authorization is valid until [date].

Sincerely,

Jane Doe

Please note: This is a general guideline, and the specific content of your authorization letter may vary depending on the situation. It is always best to consult with an attorney if you have any questions about how to write an authorization letter for your specific needs.