When planning for the future, one of the most overlooked tools is the Power of Attorney (POA). A POA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. Whether for financial, legal, or medical purposes, having a POA ensures that your affairs are handled properly, especially during unforeseen circumstances.
What is a Power of Attorney and How Does It Work?
A Power of Attorney is a document that gives legal authority to someone (known as the agent or attorney-in-fact) to act for you, the principal. Depending on the situation, you can grant your agent specific or broad powers.
Types of Power of Attorney include:
Durable Power of Attorney: Effective even if you’re incapacitated.
General Power of Attorney: Grants broad powers for handling finances, property, and legal affairs.
Medical Power of Attorney: Allows your agent to make healthcare decisions when you can’t.
Limited Power of Attorney: Specific to certain tasks or situations, such as real estate dealings.