Why a Power of Attorney Is as Important as a Will

Many people think a will is the most important legal document they need. While a will is important, a Power of Attorney (POA) can actually be even more important especially while you're still alive.

Let’s look at the difference between the two and why having a POA matters so much.

What Is a Will?
A Will is a legal document that says what should happen to your money, property and belongings after you die. It can also name a guardian for your children and choose someone to handle your estate. A will only takes effect after you pass away.

What Is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives someone else the power to act on your behalf while you are still alive. This person is often called your “agent” or “attorney-in-fact.” They can help with things like:

Paying your bills
Managing your bank accounts
Handling legal or business matters
Making medical decisions (if you’re too sick or unable to speak)

There are two main types of POA:

Financial Power of Attorney – lets someone handle your money and property.
Medical (or Health Care) Power of Attorney – lets someone make health decisions for you if you can’t.

Why POA Can Be More Important Than a Will

Here are a few key reasons:

1. A POA Helps While You’re Alive
A will is useless while you're still alive. If you get very sick, have an accident, or lose the ability to make decisions (like with dementia or a coma), your will does nothing. But a POA allows someone you trust to step in and help immediately.

2. Avoids Court Problems
If you don’t have a POA and something happens to you, your family may have to go to court to get the right to help you. This process can be slow, expensive and stressful. A POA helps avoid all that.

3. Keeps Life Running Smoothly
If you're suddenly unable to manage your finances or talk to doctors, your agent can step in right away. Bills can be paid on time, medical care can continue, and your family can focus on helping you not on paperwork and legal fights.

4. You Choose Who Helps You
With a POA, you decide who you trust to handle your affairs. Without one, the court may choose someone for you and it might not be the person you'd want.

Final Thoughts
A will is important it helps your loved ones after you pass. But a Power of Attorney protects you while you’re alive. It makes sure your bills are paid, your health is managed, and your wishes are respected if you can’t speak for yourself.

Everyone, young or old should have both a will and a POA. But if you have to start with one, the Power of Attorney might be the most urgent.

It gives peace of mind, not just for you, but for everyone who cares about you.

Our Partners Which? POA gives members 15% off Power of Attorney, an online process covering health & welfare, finances & property, or both. A specialist review can iron out errors, avoiding costly delays and grant a trusted person the legal right to make decisions for you.