Durable Power of Attorney (POA Part V)

A power of attorney (POA) is a written authorization to act on another’s behalf in legal matters. The person creating a power of attorney is known as the “principal” and the person authorized to act is called the “agent.” A durable power of attorney is a specific type of agreement that remains in effect even in the event that the principal becomes incapacitated (e.g. through physical injury or mental illness).

Unlike a typical (non-durable) power of attorney, the agent retains authority to make decisions on behalf of the principal until the principal’s death, regardless of health or mental state.

As with all power of attorney documents, a durable power of attorney may be general or special/limited. A general durable power of attorney allows your agent to conduct all acts that may legally be done by you, while a limited durable power of attorney covers specific actions, such as making health care decisions or selling property.

Also visit doyourownwill.com's Power of Attorney page for additional information or to download the appropriate forms for granting a general or special POA.

The following resources are also available to answer additional questions about Power of Attorney:

• What is a Power of Attorney?
• Child Care Power of Attorney
• How to Revoke Power of Attorney
• General vs. Special Power of Attorney