Do you know the difference between someone with Power of Attorney and an Executor?

While people often see the roles as interchangeable, they actually serve very different purposes.

B次元官网网址淭oo many times I sit with grieving families who are exhausted, overwhelmed and confused about Powers of Attorney and Executorships,B次元官网网址� says Julie Evans, from in Colwood. B次元官网网址淢any are surprised to learn that the role of the Power of Attorney ends once a death has occurred. It doesnB次元官网网址檛 grant them legal right to make funeral arrangements and decide on whether to bury or cremate their loved one.B次元官网网址�

Once an individual has died, and a will is in place, the named executor becomes responsible for arranging the personB次元官网网址檚 estate and funeral arrangements.

So, what is Power of Attorney and why do I need one?

B次元官网网址淧ower of Attorney is a legal document granting one or more individuals the authority to act on your behalf when you are unable to do so. You can also choose one person to make medical decisions and another to handle financial matters,B次元官网网址� says Evans, noting B次元官网网址渢hat as long as youB次元官网网址檙e of sound mind, changes can be made at any time, and you retain full control of your affairs until the need for the Power of Attorney arises.B次元官网网址�

An Enduring or Continuing Power of Attorney grants the assigned person(s) the authority to manage property and finances if you are mentally unable of doing so. A Power of Attorney for Personal Care grants any person you choose the authority to make choices regarding treatment, housing and care if you become temporarily or permanently mentally incapacitated.

B次元官网网址淲hile you can choose anyone of required legal age for your Power of Attorney, they should be someone of high integrity whoB次元官网网址檒l look out for your best interests,B次元官网网址� Evans says, adding B次元官网网址渢he position is voluntary and they cannot profit from handling your affairs.B次元官网网址�

When does POA come to an end?

There are a number of circumstances under which the Power of Attorney comes to a close:

• If the person you assign dies or resigns
• If you revoke it officially
• When its specific purpose or timeframe has run out
• If you enter bankruptcy
• If you become mentally incompetent and did not assign an enduring POA
• If the Court appoints an Administrator to manage your affairs
• At the time of your death

Learn what you need to know, for free

in Colwood hosts a free Power of Attorney education seminar Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Presented by investment specialist Tanya Lyn Werk, with Scotiabank, explores who you should appoint, powers to be granted, protecting your assets, common errors to avoid and more.

All are welcome, and two sessions are available B次元官网网址揳t the Sands Funeral Chapel, 317 Goldstream Ave., near Colwood Corners. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information about this session, or planning for final arrangements, contact Julie and her team at 250-478-3821. You can also learn more at .