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By Mark McGahee

A power of attorney is a legal instrument that delegates an individual’s legal authority to another person. If an individual is incapacitated, the power of attorney assigns a trusted party to make decisions on his or her behalf.

There are nondurable, springing and durable powers of attorney. A nondurable power of attorney often comes into play in real estate transactions, or when someone elects to delegate their financial affairs to an assignee during an extended absence. A springing power of attorney “springs” into effect when a specific event occurs (usually an illness or disability affecting an individual). A “durable” power of attorney allows an assignee, or agent, to act on behalf of a second party, or principal, even after the principal is not mentally competent or physically able to make decisions. Once a principal signs, or executes, a durable power of attorney, it may be used immediately, until it is either revoked by the principal or the principal dies.

Keep in mind this article is for informational purposes only. It’s not a replacement for real-life advice. Make sure to consult your legal professional so you can better understand what type of powers of attorney is a best fit for your situation.

What the power of attorney allows in financial terms: Financially, a power of attorney is a tremendously useful instrument. An agent can pay bills, write checks, make investment decisions, buy or sell real estate or other hard assets, sign contracts, file taxes and even arrange the distribution of retirement benefits.

Advanced healthcare directives: Living wills and health care power of attorney. Some illnesses can eventually rob people of the ability to articulate their wishes, and this is a major reason why people opt for a health care power of attorney or a living will. There are differences between the two. A health care power of attorney (also called a “healthcare proxy”) allows an agent to make medical decisions for a principal, should they become physically or mentally incapacitated. A living will gives an assignee similar powers of decision, but this advance directive only applies when someone faces certain death. The assignee has the authority to carry out the wishes of the incapacitated party.

Would you like to learn more? It may be time to meet with an attorney who specializes in these issues. You can find one with the help of an insurance or financial professional who has assisted families with legacy planning.

Mark McGahee may be contacted at mmcgahee@isgva.com.