Generally

• One or more powers of attorney documents are common elements of an estate plan.
  
  

Types

• Powers of attorney may be either general or special, sometimes called limited. Special or limited powers of attorney apply only to specified subject matter, such as health care or finances.
  
  

Function

• A power of attorney for documents authorizes somebody else, called your attorney or agent, to negotiate and sign documents for you.
  
  

Delegate Authority

• Because your agent has legal authority to sign your name to documents, this allows you to delegate responsibilities and duties to your agent.
  
  

Estate Plan

• The most common purpose of a power of attorney for documents is to plan your estate by taking care of yourself and your property in case you are ever injured or unable to make your own decisions. You can give authority to your agent to take care of you medically and to take care of your money and property.