Durable Powers of attorney allow an agent that you appoint to act on your behalf with respect to financial matters in the event that you cannot make those decisions yourself. It ensures that someone you trust will be able to make financial decisions at a critical time and could reduce disagreements and legal wrangling.
An Advanced Healthcare Directive not only designates an agent who is able to make healthcare decisions on your behalf, but it also provides doctors and hospitals with valuable instructions. The document could include instructions for everything from what medical procedures should or should not be used to organ donation.
A durable power of attorney is part of any comprehensive estate plan. However, they can be drafted to be an independent document as well. You should also review your power of attorney and advanced health care directive periodically to as your life changes.
