Naming someone as your Power of Attorney or Healthcare Proxy is one of the most significant acts of trust you will ever make. You are giving them the keys to your financial life and the power over your medical care. Do not default to naming your oldest child or spouse without asking these hard questions first.
Vetting a Financial POA
Your financial agent needs to be organized, trustworthy, and capable of handling complex transactions under stress.
Financial Agent Vetting
- ○Do they have a history of managing their own money responsibly?
- ○Are they organized enough to keep meticulous records of every transaction?
- ○Do they live close enough to manage local real estate or banking issues?
- ○Are they assertive enough to deal with difficult creditors or financial institutions?
Vetting a Healthcare Proxy
Your healthcare agent needs emotional resilience and the ability to advocate for your wishes, even if they personally disagree with them.
Healthcare Agent Vetting
- ○Can they handle high-stress medical emergencies without panicking?
- ○Are they willing to enforce your end-of-life wishes, even if other family members object?
- ○Do they understand your religious or ethical views on medical intervention?
- ○Are they comfortable questioning doctors and demanding second opinions?