A power of attorney can also be given to people, authorizing them to refuse or allow medical care to the principal if they become incapable of making decisions for themselves. This also includes making the decision to pull the plug in cases when only a machine is keeping the principal alive. Some people are also given the power of attorney to take care of a principal s financial portfolio. Thus, this type of powers of attorney is an enduring one since it remains in effect even if the principal is mentally incapable of making decisions for himself or herself. Durable powers of attorney are classified into two general types: health care and financial. As the name suggests, health care durable powers of attorney authorize a person, who is called an agent or an attorney-in-fact, to make all the needed choices regarding health care and hospitalization on behalf of the principal. The appointment and authorization should be clearly stated in the legal document (a power of attorney is actually a legally effective document). How is the power of attorney created? You need to completely fill out a specific power of attorney form. It should state yourself as the principal and identify the agent you are appointing to take authority on your affairs if you become unable to do so. 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. On the other hand, a living will indicates what a person wants to happen regarding his or her medical care when time comes life support is necessary. Specific issues would include bank transactions, debt collection, loan application, managing real estate property or businesses, making financial decisions and handling government financial or other concerns. Usually, this is given in a time when the principal is unavailable for a specific period of time like travel overseas, whether business or personal, and other commitments. It also depends on when you prefer to start appointing such power to your agent as well as when you want the power terminated. 1. General - This legal document allows the attorney-in-fact to act for the principal in almost every aspect of his or her life. It even authorizes the agent to gain access to the principal s safety deposit boxes or to handle all the properties of the principal.