Written by Benjamin Kingsley
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.
For comprehensive coverage of both financial and medical affairs, you will typically need two separate power of attorney documents: a Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Affairs and an Advance Health Care Directive (also known as a Health Care Power of Attorney or Medical Power of Attorney in some states).
The Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Affairs allows you to designate an agent to manage your financial matters, such as paying bills, managing investments, and handling real estate transactions. This document remains in effect even if you become incapacitated, hence the term “durable.” It’s an essential tool for ensuring your financial affairs are managed according to your wishes if you’re unable to handle them yourself.
For medical decisions, you’ll need an Advance Health Care Directive (sometimes called a medical power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney). This document allows you to appoint a health care agent (sometimes called a health care proxy) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. It also typically includes your preferences for end-of-life care and other medical treatments.
It’s important to note that many U.S. states have different laws governing financial and medical powers of attorney, which is why these are typically separate documents. The requirements, scope, and limitations can vary significantly between financial and medical matters. By having two distinct documents, you ensure that each complies with the specific legal requirements and best practices for its respective domain.
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.