What Do I Need to Sign My Healthcare Proxy in Iowa?
Witness, notary, and remote online notarization (RON) requirements for healthcare proxies in Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Iowa requires 2 witnesses for a healthcare proxy.Iowa Code § 144B.3Verified Jul 15, 2026 Witnesses cannot be: The person named as your healthcare agent, Your healthcare provider, Healthcare facility employees. Witnesses must be at least 18 years old.
In Iowa, notarization can serve as an alternative to witnesses for a healthcare proxy.Iowa Code § 144B.3Verified Jul 15, 2026 Either witnesses or notarization satisfies the execution requirements.
Iowa allows Remote Online Notarization (RON) for healthcare proxies.Iowa Code § 144B.3Verified Jul 15, 2026 The notarization can be completed via secure video call with an approved RON provider. The state also accepts out-of-state RON.
To execute a healthcare proxy in Iowa: Find 2 adults to serve as witnesses. Review witness restrictions to ensure eligibility. Get the document notarized (standard practice, not required). 2 witnesses must be physically present, so the signing cannot be completed remotely
Yes. Iowa has an explicit reciprocity statuteIowa Code § 144B.3(4)Verified Jul 15, 2026: a healthcare directive executed in another state is honored in Iowa if it was valid where signed. Per Iowa Code § 144B.3(4), a durable power of attorney for health care executed in another state in compliance with that state's law is recognized in Iowa, to the extent the document is consistent with Iowa law. Also recognizes VA advance directives. The document portability tool covers reciprocity rules in detail.
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