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Having Trouble Deciding What Type of Power of Attorney Form to Use in
Westover AL
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows one person (the “Principal”) to grant another person (the “Agent” or “Attorney-in-Fact”) the authority to act on their behalf. This authority can be broad or limited, temporary or long-term, depending on the specific type of POA you choose.
POAs are important because they ensure that someone you trust can step in to handle important matters if you are unavailable, traveling, or unable to make decisions due to illness, injury, or other circumstances. They can help avoid delays, protect your interests, and give peace of mind knowing your affairs are managed according to your wishes.
Common Types of Power of Attorney and Their Uses
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General Power of Attorney – Grants broad authority for the agent to handle financial, legal, and business matters. Often used when the Principal is unavailable but still capable of making decisions.
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Durable Power of Attorney – Remains in effect even if the Principal becomes incapacitated— for example, if the Principal fell into a coma. Commonly used in long-term planning to ensure continuity of decision-making. Only ends upon the Principal’s death, revocation by the Principal, or resignation of the Agent.
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Non-Durable Power of Attorney – Is designed for short-term use with a limited duration. It automatically expires when the Principal becomes incapacitated, or at the completion of the specific task for which it was issued.
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Limited (or Special) Power of Attorney – Grants authority for a specific task or period of time, such as signing real estate documents while the Principal is out of the country.
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Financial Power of Attorney – Is considered a type of special or limited power of attorney, because it gives the Agent authority to act on behalf of the Principal regarding certain subject matters of their choosing. In this case, it lets the Agent make decisions about the Principal's money and property.
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Medical (or Healthcare) Power of Attorney – This is another type of special or limited power of attorney. Authorizes an Agent to make healthcare decisions if the Principal is unable to do so. This type of POA is critical for ensuring that medical treatment aligns with the Principal's preferences when they are not able to express those preferences themselves. Often paired with a Living Will or Advance Directive.
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Springing Power of Attorney – “Springs” into effect only under certain conditions, such as the Principal becoming incapacitated. Once the condition is met, the Agent’s power “springs” into effect. Until then, the Agent has no legal authority, and the Principal is the only one with control over their affairs.
Looking for the right Power of Attorney form? At Notary Challenger, we help clients across Phoenix and the surrounding Arizona area understand the differences between various POA types so they can choose the one that best fits their needs.
Whether you need a Durable Power of Attorney for healthcare decisions, a General POA for managing finances, or a Limited POA for a specific transaction, we’ve gathered a selection of trusted options for you. Browse our recommended Power of Attorney forms below—each designed to meet different legal and personal needs—so you can be prepared, protected, and confident in your decision.
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*Notaries Are Not Attorneys and Therefore Cannot Practice Legal Advice.