Does a power of attorney end at death in Ohio?
Yes. A power of attorney, financial or healthcare, terminates immediately at the principal's death. After death, only the executor named in the will (once appointed by the probate court) or the trustee of a trust has legal authority over the estate's assets.
This surprises many families: the agent who managed a parent's finances for years has no authority to pay bills or access accounts the day after death. Until the probate court issues letters of authority, accounts are frozen unless they pass by beneficiary designation or trust.
The planning answer is to make sure the right assets bypass probate: TOD designations, beneficiary forms, and trusts keep the lights on during the weeks the court process takes.
Have this exact situation?
A consultation gets you an answer specific to your facts, usually the same week. Our estate planning & probate team handles this daily.