What is a durable power of attorney?

A durable power of attorney stays in effect even if you become mentally incapacitated, which is exactly when you'd need it most. A regular power of attorney ends if you lose capacity, so the durable version is the one most people want for estate planning. It lets your chosen agent keep paying bills, managing accounts, and handling your affairs without a court getting involved. The word durable simply means it survives your incapacity.