Power of Attorney

A power of attorney (POA) is a document authorizing someone to manage your finances on your behalf. You determine how much power the person will have over your financial affairs. You can give your attorney-in-fact the power to do the following:

•     Use your assets to pay your everyday expenses and those of your family
•     Buy, sell, maintain, pay taxes on and mortgage real estate and other property
•     Manage benefits from Social Security, Medicare or other governmental programs or civil or military service
•     Invest your money in stocks, bonds and mutual funds
•     Handle transactions with your bank and other financial institutions
•     Buy and sell insurance policies and annuities for you
•     File and pay your taxes
•     Operate your small business
•     Claim property you inherit or are otherwise entitled to
•     Hire someone to represent you in court
•     Manage your retirement accounts