A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document authorizing one person (the attorney or agent) to act on behalf of another (the principal) for specific purposes. POA types include property/financial (managing money and assets) and personal care (making healthcare decisions). Powers may be effective immediately or triggered by incapacity. Understanding POA is important when municipal staff interact with residents represented by others, verify authorization for property or healthcare matters, or assist employees planning for personal incapacity. POA documents must meet provincial legal requirements. Municipal services should verify POA authority before accepting direction from someone claiming to represent another person.