The powers your attorney has will depend on the type of attorney you have chosen, as well as whether you include any extra restrictions in the document.
The power of attorney information below is for Victoria, but it is similar for other states and territories. You should always check the correct information and terms to use for the state or territory you are in.
Enduring power of attorney meaning
An ‘enduring Power of Attorney mean that your Power of Attorney continues even when you lose decision making capacity. A power of attorney is the term used to refers to a legal document giving someone (the attorney) the right and responsibility to conduct financial, legal or personal affairs for another person (the principal). The role of the attorney is only valid when the principal person is alive and willing for the other person to make decisions on their behalf. If the principal dies, the attorney’s power ceases.
- Your day-to-day personal finances
- Your bills
- Managing your property
- Your tax returns
Enduring power of attorney (financial)
An enduring power of attorney for financial matters means your attorney can decide about your financial or property affairs. This includes any legal matters that relate to them.
- Your day-to-day personal finances
- Your bills
- Managing your property
- Your tax returns
Enduring power of attorney (personal)
This type of attorney means your attorney can make decisions about your care and personal welfare. This doesn’t include medical decisions.Â
- where you live
- who you live with
- what education or training you can have
- whether you go on a holiday and where you go.
Supportive attorney
- collecting information
- communicating your decisions to others
- making sure the decisions you make are actioned
- a combination of these things
What decisions can an enduring power of attorney not make?
There are a range of decisions and actions you can’t make as an attorney.
- Voting in elections
- Making or revoking a will
- Making or revoking a power of attorney
- Consenting to getting married or divorced
- Making decisions about the welfare of children
How can State Trustees help with enduring powers of attorney?
For help creating a power of attorney document, you can turn to State Trustees. We provide Will and Power of Attorney Appointments both in person and via video call to help ensure that you have the support you need to make arrangements that align with your wishes.Â
We hope this information has helped answer the question of what an enduring power of attorney is. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to call 1300 138 672 or contact us today!Â
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