What is a springing Power of Attorney (POA)?

A springing Power of Attorney (POA) is indeed defined as an authorization that becomes effective only upon a certain event, which usually pertains to the incapacitation of the principal or another specified triggering condition. This type of POA is designed to provide flexibility and control over when decision-making authority transfers to the agent. The principal retains full agency over their affairs until the specified event occurs, at which point the POA "springs" into effect. This mechanism ensures that the agent only acts when the principal is unable to do so themselves, maintaining the principal's autonomy until the need arises.

In contrast, other types of POA, such as a durable or general POA, become effective immediately upon signing and confer authority to the agent right away. Although there are time-limited POAs, such as those that last only for a specific duration, these do not define the concept of a springing POA. Additionally, the mere act of printing and signing a document does not inherently indicate the nature or functionality of a Power of Attorney, as it lacks the critical element of timing or conditions that are characteristic of a springing POA.