What is a power of attorney?

What does power of attorney mean? A power of attorney (POA) grants an agent authority to act for the principal in financial or personal matters. ^[1][2] Types General vs limited; durable (survives incapacity) vs non-durable; springing begins only on a future event. Healthcare Medical POA / advance directives differ from property POA. vs guardianship A voluntary POA may avoid court guardianship if executed while competent. Termination Ends at death of principal (agent cannot act on decedent's estate without probate authority), revocation, or incapacity (if not durable). ^[1][2]