Having a power of attorney allows you to appoint someone you trust to make important financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. This ensures that your affairs will be managed according to your wishes.

Everyone over the age of 18 should have a power of attorney in place. Accidents and illnesses can happen at any age, so it’s important to plan for the unexpected by appointing someone to act on your behalf if needed.

There are different types of power of attorney, including general power of attorney, which gives broad authority to make financial decisions, and medical power of attorney, which allows someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. It’s important to choose the type that best suits your needs.

When choosing a power of attorney, it’s important to select someone you trust implicitly, who understands your wishes, and who is willing and able to take on the responsibility. It’s a good idea to have a conversation with them about your expectations and preferences.

If you become incapacitated and do not have a power of attorney in place, your loved ones may have to go to court to obtain guardianship or conservatorship over your affairs. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, and the court may appoint someone you wouldn’t have chosen yourself.