What is a durable power of attorney?
A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is a legal document in Texas that gives someone authority to act on your behalf in financial or legal matters. This document can be used if you are unable to make decisions or handle transactions yourself. It gives the ‘agent’ the power to do whatever is necessary to manage your affairs. A DPOA is especially important in estate planning. It allows you to name someone to manage finances such as paying bills, filing taxes, and making and changing investments. It also allows you to name someone to make important decisions regarding healthcare and other important matters if you are unable to do so. When signing the document, be sure that the agent is someone you trust and that they are willing and able to handle the duties that you assign to them. Also, make sure you are explicit in the document as to the tasks the agent is allowed to do. In Texas, a DPOA is legally valid as soon as it is executed. However, you want to make sure to review the document with an estate planning attorney to make sure it meets all state-specific requirements. The Durable Power of Attorney is an important tool in estate planning and allows you to appoint someone to act as an agent on your behalf. With proper preparation, the document can give you peace of mind knowing that someone will take care of your affairs if you are unable to do so.
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