Different Types of Powers of Attorney

There are different types of powers of attorney:

General power of attorney
Limited power of attorney
Health care power of attorney



General Power of Attorney
A general power of attorney authorizes your attorney-in-fact to act on your behalf in a variety of different situations. A general power of attorney is usually used to allow your attorney-in-fact to handle all of your affairs when you are unable to handle them. Good examples are when you're traveling or if you're physically or mentally unable to handle your affairs.

Limited Power of Attorney
A limited power of attorney, sometimes called a "special" power of attorney, authorizes your attorney-in-fact to act on your behalf only in specific situations. A limited power of attorney allows you to give only specific powers to the person or organization you appoint as your attorney-in-fact. For example, you could authorize someone to sell a specific item for you, such as a house.

Health Care Power of Attorney
A health care power of attorney allows you to appoint someone to make health care decisions for you. A health care power of attorney is different from a living will, which only allows you to express your wishes concerning life-sustaining procedures.