There are several different types of power of attorney and they each offer a different level of power or control to the attorney-in-fact. Powers of attorney can also be differentiated by purpose. For instance, an individual with a medical ailment may seek a health care power of attorney to deal specifically with affairs related to their medical issue. The different types of power of attorney are:  

General Power of Attorney

As the name suggests, a general power of attorney document assigns a broad range of power or control to the attorney-in-fact (also referred to as an agent), to act on the behalf of the individual. Those powers might include managing financial interests or business transactions, purchasing life insurance, making donations, or settling claims. 

Durable Power of Attorney

A durable power of attorney is a document that is signed when an individual already has a power of attorney currently in place, but wants to ensure that their agent retains power of attorney in the event of an illness or incapacitation during the initial power of attorney.

Healthcare Power of Attorney

For ill or injured individuals who want another person to take charge of managing their medical care, a healthcare power of attorney can be signed. This ensures that when the patient can no longer communicate his or her preferences for medical treatment, their power of attorney agent can step in and decide for them. 

Special Power of Attorney

Special power of attorney is signed when a person wishes to give someone control over a specific asset or interest in their life. This can include a business owner who leaves the country and gives power of attorney to a business partner to handle financial obligations while they are overseas.