A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that lets you give someone else the authority to act on your behalf. This is one of the most important documents you can have in place — especially for medical emergencies, financial decisions, or situations where you're unavailable.

There are several types — here's what each one does:

• Durable Power of Attorney (Financial) — gives your chosen person authority to manage your finances, bank accounts, and property. Stays valid even if you become incapacitated.

• Medical Power of Attorney / Healthcare Proxy — lets someone make medical decisions for you if you can't speak for yourself.

• Limited / Special POA — grants authority for one specific task only (e.g., signing a real estate deal while you're out of town).

• General Power of Attorney — broad authority over multiple areas, but typically ends if you become incapacitated.

Not sure which one applies to you? We'll walk you through it.