Having someone you trust step in to manage your financial affairs can bring peace of mind—whether you’re traveling, facing health issues, or simply want a backup in place. A General Power of Attorney is one way to make sure that your interests are protected when you’re not able to act for yourself.
At Merlino & Gonzalez, we understand that appointing someone to act on your behalf is a deeply personal decision. Serving clients in Staten Island and throughout New York, we are dedicated to clearly explaining your options and guiding you through the process. Contact us today to get started on your general power of attorney.
What Is a General Power of Attorney?
A General Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives another person the authority to handle your financial and legal matters. This person, known as your “agent” or “attorney-in-fact,” can manage tasks such as:
- Paying bills
- Handling bank transactions
- Managing investments or real estate
- Filing taxes
- Signing contracts
This type of POA is typically broad in scope and effective while you are still mentally competent. It becomes void if you become incapacitated, unless it is drafted as a durable power of attorney.
If you’re a Staten Island resident—or anywhere in New York—it’s important to ensure your POA complies with state requirements. We’ll ensure your documents are tailored to your needs and comply with New York law.
Why Do People in New York Set One Up?
A General POA can serve many purposes, including:
- Temporary help during travel or deployment: You might be out of the country but still need someone to manage your affairs at home in Staten Island or elsewhere in New York.
- Support during illness or recovery: If you’re undergoing surgery or dealing with a health issue, it may help to have someone handle your financial matters for a while.
- Peace of mind for aging adults: Even if you’re in good health, having a POA in place can prevent confusion or family stress in the future.
Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a current need, we’ll help you draft a POA that reflects your wishes and protects your interests.
Choosing the Right Person
Your agent will have significant authority, so this decision warrants careful consideration. Above all, you should trust the person completely and feel confident in their ability to act responsibly. That might be a spouse, adult child, close friend, or even a trusted professional.
We often remind our Staten Island clients to avoid naming someone out of obligation or family pressure. The right agent is someone who understands your values, is detail-oriented, and will act in your best interest, even under stress.
General POA vs. Durable POA in New York
Many clients ask us whether they need a General or Durable Power of Attorney. The key difference is this:
- A General POA ends if you become mentally incapacitated.
- A Durable POA stays in effect even if you lose the ability to make decisions.
If you’re looking to protect yourself in case of future health issues—such as dementia or stroke—a Durable POA is often the better option. As Staten Island estate planning attorneys, we’ll walk you through both types and help you choose what’s right for your situation under New York law.
Common Questions We Hear from Staten Island Residents
Can I limit what my agent can do?
Yes. Even a General POA can be customized. If you wish to exclude certain powers, we’ll ensure the document accurately reflects your wishes.
What happens if I change my mind?
You can revoke or update your POA at any time, as long as you’re still mentally competent. We can assist you in updating the paperwork and notifying any necessary parties.
Is a POA the same as a healthcare proxy?
No. A General Power of Attorney applies to financial and legal decisions. For medical decisions, you would need a separate document—often called a Health Care Proxy or Medical Power of Attorney.
How We Help Clients Across Staten Island and New York City
At Merlino & Gonzalez, we don’t hand you a stack of legal forms and send you on your way. We take the time to understand your needs and explain your options in plain language. You’ll walk out of our Staten Island office knowing your POA was drafted with care—and that it will hold up when it matters most.
From young professionals in Manhattan getting their affairs in order to retirees in Staten Island seeking to simplify their lives for their families, we’ve helped New Yorkers across the five boroughs plan with confidence.
Let’s Talk About What’s Right for You
Setting up a General Power of Attorney is one key component of a comprehensive estate plan. Call Merlino & Gonzalez today to schedule a consultation. We’ll sit down with you, answer your questions, and help you take this important step forward.