What can a Durable Power of Attorney do?
A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint a person, known as an Agent or Attorney-in-Fact, to make decisions on their behalf. In Washington, this document can help those with disabilities to plan for their future. A DPOA allows an individual to select an Agent to make decisions concerning their property, finances, and medical care. Some of the powers that can be delegated to an Agent include authority to make financial transactions, acquire and sell property, manage investments, and handle insurance and tax matters. Additionally, an Agent can be granted the power to access medical records and make decisions about medical care and treatments. By granting an Agent these powers, an individual can ensure their medical, financial, and long-term care needs are managed according to their wishes, even if they become incapacitated or unable to make these decisions themselves. A DPOA is not only for individuals with disabilities, but can be used as a general planning tool to provide a safeguard against the unexpected. It is important to note that a DPOA is different from a Living Will, which is a document that allows an individual to specify decisions about end-of-life medical care. A DPOA is more comprehensive, as it allows an Agent to make decisions on a wide range of matters throughout an individual’s life. In Washington, an individual must clearly and thoroughly describe the powers they wish to be granted to their Agent in order for the DPOA to be valid.
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