Power of Attorney: What You Need to Know
A power of attorney is the most important document in personal preparedness. Without one, a court-appointed guardian decides for you in an emergency — not your family.
What is a power of attorney?
A power of attorney designates a trusted person to act on your behalf when you can no longer do so yourself — whether due to accident, illness, or age.
Without a power of attorney, even your spouse cannot automatically make decisions for you. The court appoints a guardian instead — often a stranger.
What does it cover?
A power of attorney can cover various areas:
Healthcare: Decisions about medical treatments, hospital stays, care facilities.
Financial matters: Access to bank accounts, property management, signing contracts.
Residence: Decisions about where you live and what type of care you receive.
Mail and authorities: Opening mail, communicating with government agencies and insurance companies.
You can limit the authorization to specific areas or grant it comprehensively.
Who needs one?
Every adult. It's a common misconception that spouses or children automatically have decision-making authority. Without a power of attorney: the court decides.
It's especially urgent for: - Single people without close relatives - Parents of minor children - Self-employed and business owners - People with real estate or complex finances
Form and validity
A power of attorney doesn't require notarization to be valid. However, notarization is recommended if real estate transactions are included.
Important: The document must be presented in its original form. Copies are often not accepted by banks and authorities. Keep the original with the authorized person and register it with the Central Precautionary Register.
Common mistakes
Waiting too long: A power of attorney must be granted while you have legal capacity. After a serious accident, it's too late.
Not naming a substitute: What if the authorized person is unavailable? Always name a backup.
Not talking to family: The authorized person must know they've been designated — and where the document is stored.
Confusing it with an advance directive: A power of attorney determines *who* decides. An advance directive determines *what* should be decided. Both are needed.