Authorisation letter

Let someone collect, sign or attend for you, for a set purpose and set dates.

Cannot be there yourself? An authorisation letter names the person acting for you, says exactly what they may do and for how long, and shows their signature so it can be checked.

Why use it

Banks, offices and couriers are far more likely to help your representative when there is a clear letter.
Limiting it to one purpose and set dates protects you if the letter is misused.
The specimen signature and ID details let the other side check they are dealing with the right person.

How it works

Add your business (or your own name) and the organisation you are writing to.
Enter the authorised person's name and, if you like, their ID type and number.
Describe exactly what they may do, and the dates the authority is valid.
Download and sign it, ask the authorised person to sign the specimen line, and give them the letter.

Good to know

Be precise. "Collect parcel tracking number 123 from the courier's Ikeja office" is much safer than "handle my affairs".
Many banks, courier companies and government offices also ask to see the authorised person's own ID, and sometimes a copy of yours. Send them along with a copy of your ID if you can.
Keep the dates short. An authorisation that ends in a week limits the damage if the letter is lost.

Questions

Is an authorisation letter the same as a power of attorney?

No. An authorisation letter is a simple, limited permission for one task. A power of attorney is a formal legal document, often with rules about witnesses or notarisation, and is usually needed for significant legal or financial decisions.

Will every organisation accept it?

Not always. Some banks and government offices insist on their own form, or on the account holder attending in person. Check with them first and ask what they need.

Do I need to include ID details?

They are optional but helpful. Many organisations ask the authorised person to show ID that matches the name in the letter.

Is the information I type stored?

Only on your own device, so your details are ready next time. Nothing you type, including ID numbers, is sent to us.

Please note

Provided free, as is, for general use. It is not legal advice, and it is not a power of attorney. Organisations decide for themselves whether to accept an authorisation letter, and many have their own forms or rules. For significant legal, property or financial matters you may need a formal power of attorney, so check with the organisation or a qualified adviser. You are responsible for whom you authorise and for what. Do not use this to create false or misleading documents or to authorise anything you do not have the right to authorise.