Understanding the Different Types of Power of Attorney in Texas: A Guide for Plano Residents
Janelle Creme

When it comes to estate planning, one of the most powerful tools available is a Power of Attorney (POA). A POA gives a trusted person the authority to make important financial, medical, or legal decisions on your behalf. For Plano residents, understanding the different types of Power of Attorney in Texas can make all the difference in ensuring your wishes are carried out.

At the Law Office of Janelle Crème, we help families in Plano and across Collin County design estate plans that provide peace of mind and protection for the future. Let’s walk through the main types of POAs recognized under Texas law—and how each one serves a unique need.

General Power of Attorney

A General Power of Attorney grants broad powers to your chosen agent, allowing them to handle financial and business matters on your behalf. This type of POA is usually effective immediately and covers tasks such as:

  • Managing bank accounts

  • Paying bills

  • Handling business transactions

👉 Best for short-term delegations of authority, such as when you’re traveling or unavailable. However, it ends if you become incapacitated, which means it is not a long-term solution for estate planning.

Durable Power of Attorney

A Durable Power of Attorney is one of the most commonly used forms in estate planning. Unlike a general POA, it remains effective even if you become incapacitated.

In Texas, durable POAs must include specific legal language to ensure they survive incapacity. This makes them a vital tool for:

  • Long-term incapacity planning

  • Ensuring bills are paid and finances are managed if you cannot act for yourself

👉 For Plano families, a durable POA is essential for protecting assets and avoiding costly guardianship proceedings.

Limited or Special Power of Attorney

A Limited (or Special) Power of Attorney grants authority only for a specific task or time period. For example:

  • Selling a home in Plano while you’re out of state

  • Authorizing a relative to sign documents during a temporary absence

👉 This type of POA ends once the specific transaction is complete or the set timeframe expires.

Springing Power of Attorney

A Springing Power of Attorney only becomes effective when a specific condition occurs—most often when you become incapacitated.

While appealing, springing POAs can sometimes cause delays, since proving incapacity usually requires medical documentation. Still, they are useful if you don’t want your agent to have immediate authority.

👉 For Texans who prefer more control, a springing POA offers flexibility—but it must be carefully drafted to avoid confusion.

Medical Power of Attorney

A Medical Power of Attorney (Healthcare POA) gives your chosen agent authority to make healthcare decisions if you cannot communicate with doctors yourself. This is different from a Living Will (or advance directive), which expresses your end-of-life wishes.

With a medical POA, your agent can:

  • Consent to or refuse medical treatments

  • Choose doctors and facilities

  • Access your medical records

👉 Every adult in Plano—not just seniors—should have a medical POA in place. Accidents and sudden illness can happen at any age.

Why Plano Families Need a Power of Attorney

Having the right type of POA is about protecting your family, your health, and your assets. Without one, your loved ones may need to go through lengthy and expensive court processes just to handle your affairs.

At the Law Office of Janelle Crème, we take the time to understand your goals and create a customized estate plan—including the right POAs—that fits your needs.

Take the Next Step

If you live in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, or anywhere in Collin County, now is the time to make sure your legal documents are in order.

📞 Contact the Law Office of Janelle Crème today to schedule a consultation and learn which Power of Attorney in Texas best serves your family’s needs.