Can a Florida bank refuse a power of attorney?
Yes, but only for reasons the statute allows, and they must say why. Facts about Florida Chapter 709 for document prep, not legal advice.
Florida does not force every bank to honor every power of attorney on sight. Section 709.2120 lists when a third person is not required to accept, including when the institution would not have to deal with the principal in the same circumstances, when it knows authority terminated, when a timely request for an affidavit or opinion of counsel is refused, when a remotely notarized document lacks a producible electronic journal, when it has a good-faith belief the power is invalid, or when adult-protective concerns are reported.
For banking or investment transactions that cite § 709.2208, four business days is presumed a reasonable time to accept or reject. A rejection for other reasons must be in writing with the reason. Unlawful rejection can lead to a court order and damages, including attorney fees. Section 709.2119 also lets a bank ask for a statutory agent affidavit before relying on the document.
Practical tip: bring a clean original or lawful copy, expect the affidavit form, and make sure witness and notary blocks are complete under § 709.2105. ClickDocs' Florida financial durable power of attorney is $89 and includes banking-authority language patterns common under Chapter 709; acceptance is still up to each institution. Arrange your own notary for now. This page is statute fact, not advice on suing a bank.