Marie Cantone

May 2010

Do you know if you need a durable power of attorney?

Yes, you do if you want a say in who makes medical and/or financial decisions for you I you are unable to do so.    Unlike a will, your durable power of attorney takes effect which you’re still living.   It is called durable because it doesn’t end if you later become incapacitated.

Families face tragic and difficult situations every day.  Here are some examples of families whose lives are made EASIER by having a durable power of attorney in place:

-An unmarried couple wants to have authority to make medical decisions for one another if the worst should happen.   They designate each other as durable power of attorney for medical purposes

-A divorced mother is unable to work or make financial decisions due to mental illness.   As durable power of attorney, her sister can pay her rent, file taxes, and manage finances.

-An elderly couple gave their daughter durable power of attorney.  They want to be prepared in case one or both of them lose their mental capacity.

There are two types of durable power of attorneys.  

Financial power of attorney names a person to manage your financial affairs.   It can be written that it takes effect when you sign it OR you can specify that it goes into effect when a doctor certifies that you have become incapacitated.

Medical power of attorney can be established by signing and notarizing a simple form. This document is different from a living will, which is a written statement of a person’s medical wishes, but does not appoint another person to make healthcare decisions.

A durable power of attorney can be established by signing and notarizing a simple form.  You may want to consult with an attorney to be sure that you have completed the documents properly.      A durable power of attorney may bring peace of mind, knowing you have authorized someone you trust to make important decisions for you.

Marie Cantone

Innovative Planning Services

631-261-7748