Decision-education guide

Power of attorney basics

A power of attorney is a legal authorization that can allow another person to make specified decisions or act for someone else, but form, scope and terminology vary by jurisdiction.

Power of attorneyLegal role

Editorial review: August 11, 2026 · Rachel E. Pembroke

Authority comes from the document and law

Do not assume every power of attorney grants the same powers.

Financial and personal-care roles may differ

Ontario, for example, distinguishes a continuing power of attorney for property from a power of attorney for personal care.

Capacity and timing matter

Rules about when authority begins, continues or ends are jurisdiction-specific.

Use current local forms and advice

Government forms and independent legal advice can reduce the risk of relying on an outdated template or the wrong jurisdiction.

This page provides general educational information. For a real agreement, dispute, court filing, estate matter, debt problem or authorization document, check the current rules that apply where you live and obtain qualified advice when the consequences are significant.