Power of Attorney Guide

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives another person — your "agent" — authority to act on your behalf. There are several types, and choosing the wrong one can leave you unprotected when you need it most. Click any type below to learn what it does, then use the finder to get a personalized recommendation.

Which POA Do I Need?

1. Are you planning for a temporary absence (surgery, travel) or long-term incapacity?

Temporary

Long-term / Both

2. Do you need financial OR healthcare decisions (or both) covered?

Financial only

Healthcare only

Both

3. Do you want the POA to activate only if you become incapacitated?

Yes — springing

No — effective immediately