Power of Attorney

Enduring Power of Attorney

Protect your finances, even when you can't manage them yourself.

None of us can predict the future. A sudden illness, accident, or condition like dementia can leave anyone unable to manage their own financial and legal affairs, sometimes without warning. An enduring power of attorney ensures that if this happens, someone you trust can step in right away to take care of your bills, property, and finances on your behalf.

Why an enduring power of attorney matters

In Alberta, a regular power of attorney ends if you lose mental capacity, which is exactly when your family needs it most. An enduring power of attorney stays in effect, giving the person you've chosen the legal authority to act for you when you can't.

Without one, your loved ones may need to apply to the court to be appointed as your trustee before they can access your accounts or manage your property. That process can take months, involves legal costs, and may result in someone being appointed who isn't the person you would have chosen. In the meantime, bills can go unpaid and important decisions can be left on hold.

With an enduring power of attorney, you can:

• Choose who will manage your finances and legal affairs
• Decide whether it takes effect immediately or only if you lose capacity
• Name more than one attorney and decide how they work together
• Set limits or instructions on what your attorney can do
• Avoid a costly and time-consuming court application for your family
• Ensure your bills, investments, property, and taxes continue to be managed

What your attorney can do

Depending on how your document is set up, your attorney can pay bills, manage bank accounts and investments, deal with real estate, file taxes, and handle other financial and legal matters on your behalf. They are legally required to act in your best interests and keep proper records.

Who needs an enduring power of attorney?

Every adult benefits from having one, regardless of age or wealth. It's especially important if you:

• Own a home, business, or investments
• Are married or in a partnership (spouses don't automatically have authority over each other's finances)
• Are planning for retirement or later life
• Have a health condition that could affect your future capacity
• Travel frequently or spend extended time away from home

Our approach

We'll walk you through your options, help you choose the right person for the role, and tailor your document to your needs and comfort level. Everything is explained in plain language, and your enduring power of attorney will be prepared to meet Alberta's legal requirements.

Complete your plan

An enduring power of attorney covers financial and legal matters only. For health care and personal decisions, you'll also want a personal directive, and a will to take care of your estate after you're gone. Together, these three documents form a complete estate plan. Ask us about our estate planning packages.

Plan today. Protect tomorrow.
Book your consultation today and give yourself and your family peace of mind.

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