Power of Attorney (POA)
There are two types of POA: a general durable POA takes effect on signing without having to prove you are incapacitated. The other—called a “springing power”—only becomes effective upon the determination by a physician that you are unable to make your own decisions regarding your property or care.
Families should prepare these legal documents long before incapacitation is a factor. Without medical and financial POA, family members must go through a great deal of red tape and expense to obtain guardianship so they can make decisions on a loved one’s behalf.
Since the person you are naming as your “agent” under your DPOA will have very broad powers over your property and legal decisions, it is vital to choose your agent carefully.
Use AgingCare’s POA resources as your guide to understanding and obtaining power of attorney. Explore expert articles and Caregiver Q&A about power of attorney when preparing this important legal document to help an aging loved one.
Power of Attorney (POA) Articles
Power of Attorney Explained
One of the most powerful tools for managing your affairs should you become mentally incapacitated is a durable power of attorney (DPOA). Understand the legal powers and responsibilities of assigning and holding POA.
14 CommentsDurable vs. Springing Power of Attorney: What’s the Difference?
Power of attorney (POA) documents are an important part of a person's legal plans.The way a POA document is written determines when it goes into effect and specifies what powers the agent holds.
94 CommentsThings You Can and Can't Do With Power of Attorney
Whether you’ve been named as someone else’s power of attorney (POA) or you’re looking to appoint one for yourself, know what rights, responsibilities and limitations come with this legal designation.
170 CommentsHow Much Does It Cost to Get a Power of Attorney Document?
It’s easy to purchase an affordable power of attorney (POA) form online, but this option comes with some risks. An elder law attorney can explain how this tool works, help you avoid pitfalls and customize POA documents to meet your unique needs.
14 CommentsHow to Sign as Power of Attorney for Your Elderly Parent
When acting as power of attorney (POA) for an aging parent or loved one, your signature must make it clear that you are acting on their behalf and not assuming personal responsibility for the contract or transaction.
0 CommentsWhen POA Isn’t Enough: Authorizations Needed to Act on a Loved One’s Behalf
Power of attorney documents allow caregivers to access personal information and make vital decisions for elderly loved ones, but some institutions require additional documentation. See what other authorizations you may need to apply for.
19 CommentsWhat to Do When the Bank Refuses a Financial POA Document
Sometimes even a legally prepared power of attorney (POA) document is refused by the bank. Know why financial institutions hesitate to grant POAs access to accounts and how to remedy this situation.
48 Comments
Power of Attorney (POA) Questions
Selling stocks as POA. Have you had issues with this?
3 AnswersHow do I fill out the POA form as the wife?
5 AnswersCan a live in POA forbid family members from taking the parent out of home for simple lunch or day trip?
3 AnswersGardenArtist Answered 4 hours agoConcerned about dad living with sister. Would I have any legal recourse to stop this from happening?
5 Answers
Power of Attorney (POA) Discussions
Surprised at when Power of Attorney ends.
41 CommentsHow should I go about getting a POA and maybe guardianship if my wife will not agree?
5 CommentsIsthisrealyreal Commented Jan 16, 2021"Fiduciaries" versus Fiduciaries
2 CommentsHeads up: brought my 91-yr old mom to ER. Only patients allowed in unless you are medical PoA or Medical Rep.
5 Comments
Frequently Asked Questions about Power of Attorney (POA)
Power of Attorney (POA) Related Topics
- Advance Directive
- Alzheimer's & Dementia
- Care Decisions
- Cognitive Decline
- Elder Law
- Estate Planning
- Family Caregiver
- Financial Planning
- Financial POA
- Forms & Documents
- Guardianship
- Health Care Directives
- HIPAA
- Living Will
- Medical POA
- New to Caregiving
- Parents
- Paying for Care
- Representative Payee
- Senior Housing