What is a durable power of attorney?

A durable power of attorney (DPOA) is a legal document that allows an individual (the principal) to appoint another person (the agent) to act on their behalf. This document may come into effect either immediately or upon the principal’s incapacitation or disability. In Washington, the DPOA can be used to grant an agent authority to perform a wide variety of tasks, including financial management, real estate transactions, health care decisions, tax filing, and more. The principal must name a valid agent and are encouraged to name an alternate agent in case the primary agent is unable or unwilling to serve. In the event of incapacity or disability, the DPOA will remain in effect until the principal passes away or revokes the document. Creating a DPOA is an important part of estate planning in Washington, as it allows the principal to make important decisions and take legal action without physically being present. It is also valuable for individuals with chronic conditions that could affect their well-being, as it provides them with peace of mind that powers and duties will still be performed in their absence.

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What is a durable power of attorney?

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