What is a Power of Attorney and why should I consider one?

Planning for the future involves more than just considering how to distribute your assets after your passing. It also requires thoughtful preparation for unexpected events or situations that may arise during your lifetime. One essential tool for such planning is a Financial Power of Attorney (POA). In this article, we will explore what a Financial POA is and why you need one as part of your comprehensive estate plan.

A Financial Power of Attorney is a legal document that designates an individual, known as an agent or attorney-in-fact, to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so due to incapacity or absence. This trusted person is granted authority to manage your financial affairs, including banking, investments, taxes, property transactions, and other related matters.

These are some compelling reasons why you should make time to create a Financial Power of Attorney:

Managing Financial Affairs in Case of Incapacity:

None of us can predict when illness, accident, or aging may lead to incapacity. If you become unable to handle your financial affairs independently, having a Financial POA ensures that a trusted person of your choosing can step in and manage your affairs on your behalf. Without a Financial POA in place, your loved ones may face significant challenges and delays in managing your finances, including paying bills, accessing funds, or making critical financial decisions.

Avoiding Court-Appointed Conservatorship:

In case you become incapacitated and are unable to manage your financial affairs, a court may need to appoint a conservator or guardian to handle your affairs if you don’t have a Financial POA. This process can be costly, time-consuming, and may not align with your wishes. By having a Financial POA, you can proactively designate a trusted person to act on your behalf, eliminating the need for court intervention and maintaining control over who manages your financial matters.

Continuity of Financial Management:

A Financial POA ensures that your financial affairs can continue smoothly even when you are unavailable or unable to manage them yourself. This is particularly relevant if you frequently travel, have business obligations, or anticipate being unavailable for an extended period. Your agent can step in and handle financial transactions, sign legal documents, and perform necessary tasks, ensuring that your financial affairs remain in order.

Tailoring to Your Specific Needs:

A Financial POA is a customizable document that can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. You have the flexibility to define the powers you grant to your agent, the duration of the POA's effectiveness, and any limitations or restrictions you wish to impose. This customization ensures that your agent acts according to your preferences and in your best interests.

Creating a Financial Power of Attorney is a critical component of a comprehensive estate plan and will provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. You can rest assured that your financial affairs will be handled by someone you trust, following your wishes and best interests. At the same time, your loved ones will appreciate the clarity and guidance provided by the Financial POA, minimizing stress and confusion during challenging times.

GoodTrust offers you an easy way to create your own customizable Financial POA that can be tailored to meet your specific requirements.

Create your Power of Attorney with GoodTrust today by clicking here!