Which document remains valid if the person becomes incapacitated?

Which document remains valid if the person becomes incapacitated?

• A. Wills
• B. Living Will
• C. Medical Power of Attorney
• D. Durable Power of Attorney

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is planning for what happens if you can’t make decisions yourself. A document that stays in effect when you’re incapacitated is designed to let someone you trust handle your affairs without going through a court. A durable power of attorney is specifically created to remain valid even if you become unable to manage your own matters. It gives your chosen agent authority to handle financial and legal tasks on your behalf, such as paying bills, managing investments, or signing on your behalf. Because it’s labeled as “durable,” its authority doesn’t end just because you’re incapacitated, which is why it’s the best answer to this scenario. Wills are not about ongoing decision-making while you’re alive—they come into effect after death. A living will outlines your preferences for medical care if you’re unable to communicate, but it doesn’t appoint someone to act on your behalf. A medical power of attorney (healthcare proxy) designates someone to make medical decisions for you when you can’t, which is important, but it addresses healthcare, not financial/overall affairs. For continuing financial authority during incapacity, the durable power of attorney is the document that remains valid.

The key idea here is planning for what happens if you can’t make decisions yourself. A document that stays in effect when you’re incapacitated is designed to let someone you trust handle your affairs without going through a court.

A durable power of attorney is specifically created to remain valid even if you become unable to manage your own matters. It gives your chosen agent authority to handle financial and legal tasks on your behalf, such as paying bills, managing investments, or signing on your behalf. Because it’s labeled as “durable,” its authority doesn’t end just because you’re incapacitated, which is why it’s the best answer to this scenario.

Wills are not about ongoing decision-making while you’re alive—they come into effect after death. A living will outlines your preferences for medical care if you’re unable to communicate, but it doesn’t appoint someone to act on your behalf. A medical power of attorney (healthcare proxy) designates someone to make medical decisions for you when you can’t, which is important, but it addresses healthcare, not financial/overall affairs. For continuing financial authority during incapacity, the durable power of attorney is the document that remains valid.