In the United States, the word attorney is commonly used to refer to them. There are however many types of power of attorney depending on the nature of the contract, the scope of the power and the period that it is valid. The most common is of course the general power of attorney which authorizes the agent to act on your behalf and to represent you in dealings and other matters. It would help to have a video document stating with the principal stating the power of attorney or have several witnesses present to testify that the principal is mentally and psychologically competent when the document was signed. The power of attorney s termination is stated in the document. In addition to that, it could also end upon the death of the principal or when the principal, given that h/she is still competent, decided to destroy the document. It even authorizes the agent to gain access to the principal s safety deposit boxes or to handle all the properties of the principal. The effectivity of this document ends when the principal dies or becomes mentally disabled. Because of its seemingly unlimited nature, the general power must be considered thoroughly before it is given to another person. But deciding whom you will entrust your assets, money, and health (even your life) can be very tough. To make the selection process a bit easier for you, take heed of the following considerations that you must include when nominating a person in your power of attorney. Age It is a basic factor in determining whether someone is fit to become your attorney-in-fact. Medical powers of attorney particularly involve medical care decisions that agents make for their principals. You still need one even if you already have drafted a living will. Medical powers of attorney and living wills are two different legal documents. The former merely authorizes a person to make important medical care decisions such as those regarding use of life support when the principal is mentally incapable of doing this for himself or herself. Remember, by creating a POA, you authorize your agent to use your name in carrying out his or her tasks such as preparing and filing tax returns, borrowing money from the bank, and collecting your social security benefits. With a POA in his or her hands, your agent can make financial, health care, and other legal decisions on your behalf.