--- title: What is the Difference Between Durable and General Power of Attorney? description: "General vs. Durable Power of Attorney: Understand differences in authority, timing, and scope to potentially choose the right legal tool for your situation." image: https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/durable-general-poa-landscape.png --- [![Realized 1031 Exchange Marketplace](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black.png?width=240&height=80&name=Realized-Logo-Black.png "Realized 1031 Logo") ](https://www.realized1031.com/) - [Wealth Management Gap](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) [Register](https://www.realized1031.com/marketplace) [Log In](https://www.realized1031.com/login) - Better Business Bureau Rating: **A+** - [FINRA BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333) - [Call](tel:1-877-797-1031) **(877) 797-1031** # What is the Difference Between Durable and General Power of Attorney? Posted Jan 2, 2024 ![Understanding Power of Attorney options: Durable (evergreen, left) for ongoing support, General (deciduous, right) for specific tasks.](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/durable-general-poa-landscape.png?width=1792&height=1024&name=durable-general-poa-landscape.png) Power of Attorney is a term that indicates that the grantor has given another person authority to act on their behalf. The person to whom the authority is given does not need to be an attorney and typically isn’t. In fact, you don’t even need an attorney to establish the POA, although a notary will be helpful.  Powers of Attorney (POA) include several varieties. General powers apply to all of your interests and entitle the agent to represent you. This designation means your POA can sign documents on your behalf, engage in financial transactions, and buy and sell assets. A general power of attorney becomes effective when the grantor and the grantee sign the agreement and remains effective until the grantor either passes away or becomes incompetent.  In contrast, a durable POA becomes effective when you can no longer decide independently. This POA grant remains in force until the grantor cancels it (while competent to do so) or dies.  Also, a POA can be limited. Medical POAs are common examples of limited grants, and typically cover decisions about medical treatment for grantors who cannot make or communicate treatment decisions. Medical POAs are durable but do not activate until the grantor becomes incapacitated. General POAs may also be limited. The grantor can specify that the agent is authorized to conduct certain transactions but not others.  ### Can a General POA also be Durable? Yes, a designation of general POA can be identified as durable. In this case, the grantor is seeking to accomplish two goals: first, to have a representative who can support their interests now, and second, to have that person continue to work on their behalf in case the grantor is incapacitated.   | Type of POA | Takes Effect | Terminates | Includes what authority | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Medical | When grantor is incapacitated | When grantor dies or revokes grant | Medical decisions | | General | When agreed to | If grantor dies, is incapacitated, or revokes grant | All as specified | | Durable | When grantor is incapacitated | When grantor dies or revokes grant | All as specified | | General Durable | As specified | When grantor dies or revokes grant | All as specified |   ### Should I name more than one POA? You may want more than one POA. For example, you may want a general POA to help you “be in two places at one time” if you have many business interests. This person can represent you and act at your direction (like buying and selling investments or paying bills). Typically, this agent isn’t making decisions on your behalf, but instead carrying out your wishes. In this case, the grant would likely not be durable. If you are unable to act, the general POA will terminate.  There might be a different person you want to name as a durable POA. That person would have no power until you cannot act on your behalf. Then, depending on the specifics of the POA grant, they would transact on your behalf without your direction.  You may also want a separate medical POA. That individual does not need the financial strengths of a general durable POA but must be able to follow your preferences as established and advocate on your behalf. Each of these has a vital purpose, but each has different responsibilities and needs distinct attributes.  This material is for general information and educational purposes only. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions. It should also not be construed as advice meeting the particular investment needs of any investor. Realized does not provide tax or legal advice. This material is not a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified professional for your individual situation. Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth [![Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg?width=250&height=250&name=IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg "Learn new ways to use real ...") ](https://www.realized1031.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-durable-and-general-power-of-attorney#blogform) Download eBook ---   --- ### Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth ![Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-550.jpg?width=550&height=650&name=IPWM-eBook-550.jpg) Learn new ways to use real estate to pursue your wealth goals. By providing your email and phone number, you are opting to receive communications from Realized. If you receive a text message and choose to stop receiving further messages, reply STOP to immediately unsubscribe. Msg & Data rates may apply. To manage receiving emails from Realized visit the Manage Preferences link in any email received. Search ### [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Wealth Management](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Scenarios](https://www.realized1031.com/scenarios) - [Private Client Program](https://www.realized1031.com/private-client) - [Realized Exchange Services](https://www.realized1031.com/realized-exchange-services) ### [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [The Team](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [FAQ](https://www.realized1031.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Testimonials](https://www.realized1031.com/testimonials) - [Press](https://www.realized1031.com/press) - [Careers](https://www.realized1031.com/careers) ### [Partners](https://www.realized1031.com/partners) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Broker Dealers](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/broker-dealers) - [Real Estate Agents](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/real-estate-agents) - [Certified Public Accountants](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/certified-public-accountants) ### [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - #### Learn - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) - [Glossary of Terms](https://www.realized1031.com/glossary) - [Capital Gains Tax Rates](https://www.realized1031.com/capital-gains-tax-rate) - #### Watch - [Video Library](https://www.realized1031.com/videos) - [Webinar Archive](https://www.realized1031.com/webinars) - #### Read - [Delaware Statutory Trust](https://www.realized1031.com/delaware-statutory-trust) - [Tenants-In-Common](https://www.realized1031.com/tenants-in-common-tic) - [1031 Exchange](https://www.realized1031.com/1031-exchange) - [Qualified Intermediary](https://www.realized1031.com/qualified-intermediary) - [Qualified Opportunity Zones](https://www.realized1031.com/opportunity-zones) #### Realized - 500 W 13th Street Austin, TX 78701 - (877) 797-1031 ##### [Contact Us](https://www.realized1031.com/contact-us) - [![Realized on Facebook](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-facebook-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-facebook-whiterev.png)](https://www.facebook.com/Realized/) - [![Realized on LinkedIn](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-linkedin-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-linkedin-whiterev.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/realized/) - [![Realized on YouTube](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-youtube-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-youtube-whiterev.png)](https://www.youtube.com/c/Realized1031?sub_confirmation=1) - [![Realized Holdings, Inc. BBB Business Review](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/bbb/RZH2-bbb-seal.png?width=40&height=65&name=RZH2-bbb-seal.png)](http://www.bbb.org/central-texas/business-reviews/real-estate-investors/realized-holdings-llc-in-austin-tx-1000112948/#bbbonlineclick) - [![FEA Logo](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/fea/RZH2-fea-logo.png?width=82&height=65&name=RZH2-fea-logo.png "FEA Logo")](https://www.1031.org) SECURITIES DISCLOSURE Realized1031.com is a website operated by Realized Technologies, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. (“Realized Holdings”). Securities and/or Investment Advisory Services may be offered through Registered Representatives or Investment Advisor Representatives of Realized Financial, Inc. ("Realized"), a broker/dealer, member [FINRA](https://www.finra.org)/[SIPC](https://www.sipc.org/), and registered investment adviser. Realized is a subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. ("Realized Holdings"). Check the background of this firm on [FINRA's BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333). Hypothetical example(s) are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to represent the past or future performance of any specific investment. Investing in alternative assets involves higher risks than traditional investments and is suitable only for sophisticated investors. Alternative investments are often sold by prospectus that discloses all risks, fees, and expenses. They are not tax efficient and an investor should consult with his/her tax advisor prior to investing. Alternative investments have higher fees than traditional investments and they may also be highly leveraged and engage in speculative investment techniques, which can magnify the potential for investment loss or gain and should not be deemed a complete investment program. The value of the investment may fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they invested. This site is published for residents of the United States who are accredited investors only. Registered Representatives and Investment Advisor Representatives may only conduct business with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed until appropriate registration is obtained or exemption from registration is determined. Not all of services referenced on this site are available in every state and through every representative listed. For additional information, please contact the Realized Compliance department at 512-472-7171 or info@realized1031.com. - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.realized1031.com/terms-and-conditions) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.realized1031.com/privacy-policy) - [Form CRS](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/FormCRS.pdf) - [ADV 2A](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/ADV2A.pdf) - [Reg BI Disclosures](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/RegBI.pdf) -   © 2026 Realized Holdings, Inc. ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org/", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Power of Attorney is a term that indicates that the grantor has given another person authority to act on their behalf. The person to whom the authority is given does not need to be an attorney and typically isn’t. In fact, you don’t even need an attorney to establish the POA, although a notary will be helpful. Powers of Attorney (POA) include several varieties. General powers apply to all of your interests and entitle the agent to represent you. This designation means your POA can sign documents on your behalf, engage in financial transactions, and buy and sell assets. A general power of attorney becomes effective when the grantor and the grantee sign the agreement and remains effective until the grantor either passes away or becomes incompetent. In contrast, a durable POA becomes effective when you can no longer decide independently. This POA grant remains in force until the grantor cancels it (while competent to do so) or dies. Also, a POA can be limited. Medical POAs are common examples of limited grants, and typically cover decisions about medical treatment for grantors who cannot make or communicate treatment decisions. Medical POAs are durable but do not activate until the grantor becomes incapacitated. General POAs may also be limited. The grantor can specify that the agent is authorized to conduct certain transactions but not others. Can a General POA also be Durable? Yes, a designation of general POA can be identified as durable. In this case, the grantor is seeking to accomplish two goals: first, to have a representative who can support their interests now, and second, to have that person continue to work on their behalf in case the grantor is incapacitated. Type of POA Takes Effect Terminates Includes what authority Medical When grantor is incapacitated When grantor dies or revokes grant Medical decisions General When agreed to If grantor dies, is incapacitated, or revokes grant All as specified Durable When grantor is incapacitated When grantor dies or revokes grant All as specified General Durable As specified When grantor dies or revokes grant All as specified Should I name more than one POA? You may want more than one POA. For example, you may want a general POA to help you “be in two places at one time” if you have many business interests. This person can represent you and act at your direction (like buying and selling investments or paying bills). Typically, this agent isn’t making decisions on your behalf, but instead carrying out your wishes. In this case, the grant would likely not be durable. If you are unable to act, the general POA will terminate. There might be a different person you want to name as a durable POA. That person would have no power until you cannot act on your behalf. Then, depending on the specifics of the POA grant, they would transact on your behalf without your direction. You may also want a separate medical POA. That individual does not need the financial strengths of a general durable POA but must be able to follow your preferences as established and advocate on your behalf. Each of these has a vital purpose, but each has different responsibilities and needs distinct attributes.", "articleSection" : [ "Financial Planning" ], "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "email" : "marketing@realized1031.com", "image" : "", "name" : "The Realized Team", "url" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/author/the-realized-team" }, "dateModified" : "2024-01-02T19:00:00+0000", "datePublished" : "2024-01-02T19:00:00+0000", "description" : "General vs. Durable Power of Attorney: Understand differences in authority, timing, and scope to potentially choose the right legal tool for your situation.", "headline" : "What is the Difference Between Durable and General Power of Attorney?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 1024, "url" : "https://733513.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/733513/durable-general-poa-landscape.png", "width" : 1792 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-durable-and-general-power-of-attorney", "name" : "What is the Difference Between Durable and General Power of Attorney?", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "USA", "addressLocality" : "Austin", "addressRegion" : "TX", "postalCode" : "78701", "streetAddress" : "500 W 13th Street " }, "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 60, "url" : "http://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black-No-Margin-296x60-AMP.png", "width" : 296 }, "name" : "Realized" }, "thumbnailUrl" : "https://733513.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/733513/durable-general-poa-landscape.png" } ```