What is the difference between a will and a power of attorney?

A will is a legal document that is used to dictate how someone’s assets and property are distributed when they pass away. This document will also outline other issues the maker of the will wishes to have handled after their death, such as funeral arrangements and the guardianship of any children. In Washington state, the will must be in writing and must be signed by two witnesses in order to be legally binding. A power of attorney is a legal document that gives one person the authority to act on behalf of another person in financial and legal matters. The person who creates the power of attorney is known as the “principal”. This document will give the selected individual, or “agent”, the ability to make decisions regarding the principal’s finances, property, health care, and other matters. In Washington, the power of attorney must be in writing and must be signed by the principal in order for it to be legally binding. The primary difference between a will and a power of attorney is that a will only comes into effect upon the death of the person who created it, while a power of attorney is effective immediately. The power of attorney is also only valid while the principal is alive, while a will is only valid after the maker dies. Additionally, a power of attorney allows the agent to act on the principal’s behalf while they are alive, while a will only dictates the distribution of assets and property when the maker dies.

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What is the difference between a will and a power of attorney?

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