In California, an Advance Health Care Directive can name a health-care agent and record treatment wishes. It is different from a financial power of attorney, which may authorize someone to handle money, property, benefits, or contracts. Families should use current official forms and get legal advice when the situation is complex or the person may not understand the document.
What is a California Advance Health Care Directive?
An Advance Health Care Directive lets an adult state health-care preferences and appoint another person to make health-care decisions if authorized by the document and California law. The California Attorney General explains that planning ahead can help doctors, family, and friends understand a person’s wishes.
Open California’s official fillable Advance Health Care Directive PDF →
Is the health-care directive the same as a financial power of attorney?
No. The health-care directive concerns health decisions. A financial power of attorney may give an agent authority over selected financial, property, tax, benefits, or contract matters. California Courts cautions that a power of attorney can give an agent significant authority and recommends legal review.
How should someone choose an agent?
- Choose a trusted adult who understands the person’s values and can speak up under pressure.
- Ask the person before naming them and discuss the wishes they may need to carry out.
- Consider naming alternate agents in case the first person is unavailable.
- Avoid choosing someone only because they are the closest relative if they are not comfortable with the responsibility.
How is the directive signed?
Follow the instructions in the official form exactly. The form explains signature, witness, and notary options and includes special witness requirements for certain residents of skilled nursing facilities. Do not sign an incomplete document, and do not ask a person to sign if capacity or undue influence is in question. Ask a qualified California attorney for help.
Who should receive a copy?
- The appointed health-care agent and alternates
- The person’s physician and other regular medical providers
- The selected residential care home, when appropriate
- A trusted family member or lawyer
Keep the original accessible. California also offers an optional Advance Health Care Directive Registry through the Secretary of State.
Review the California Secretary of State registry information →
Where can families learn about a financial power of attorney?
California Courts provides an overview of financial and property powers of attorney, including when they may become effective and why careful legal review matters.
Read California Courts’ power-of-attorney guidance →
What to bring to a care-home move-in
If the resident has completed a directive, provide the facility with a copy and the agent’s current contact information. Also ask which other documents the home needs, such as a physician report, medication list, insurance cards, or a POLST when applicable.
Use the California care-home move-in checklist →
This page is general educational information, not legal or medical advice. PersonalCareHomes.net does not create, modify, witness, or validate legal documents. Use official forms and consult a qualified California attorney or health-care professional for individual guidance. Sources reviewed September 2026.