Appointing a power of attorney for your estate is arguably one of the most important decisions that you will have to make. It gives this person power to essentially make decisions on your behalf. They are most often used in an estate plan, when foreseeing the possibility of becoming incapacitated in the future. They may also be used by military service members during the time that they go on active duty.
If you are considering appointing a power of attorney in the state of Massachusetts, it is likely that you will have many questions. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about powers of attorney.
When I appoint a power of attorney, will there be an end date for that power?
Generally speaking, the power of attorney’s status will only end at the end of your life. This tends to be the case when the person was appointed to deal with deteriorating health. However, it is possible to revoke a power of attorney. This might be done after a military service member returns from active duty, for example.
How much power does a power of attorney have?
Your power of attorney will be able to make many decisions on your behalf. These may include financial decisions or medical decisions. However, your power of attorney will never be able to alter your will.
If you are going through the process of planning your estate in Massachusetts, you may consider appointing a power of attorney in addition to drafting a living trust. This will mean that your financial and medical well-being will be better planned for toward the end of your life.
