An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)
An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) is a legal document that will allow you to select who will be responsible for making important decisions on your behalf if you are not able to because of sickness or an injury. An EPA can provide you with peace of mind ahead of time that your wishes will be followed.
There are two types of EPA
A Property EPA covers decisions about money and assets and can be put into effect at any time. More than one attorney can be chosen to act for you for this EPA.
A Personal Care and Welfare EPA covers decisions about your health, accommodation and care. It comes into effect only if a medical professional or Family Court decides a person is ‘mentally incapable’. Only one attorney can be selected for this EPA.
How do I get an EPA?
When you’ve decided who you’d like as your attorney and what you want them to do, you need to arrange a lawyer to be your witness. They will make sure you understand all your options, what the EPA document means, and that it meets all legal requirements.
Creating an EPA does cost money but there are ways to bring down the cost. Some lawyers and other legal professionals offer a SuperGold Card discount so make sure you ask. They may also let you pay the cost off over time.
For more information on getting an EPA go to the SuperSeniors website