---
title: What is the difference between a living will and a durable power of attorney?
description: Legal Faqs' blog explains the difference between a living will and a durable power of attorney. Discover how each legal document works and make informed decisions for your future healthcare and personal well-being.
image: https://www.legalfaq.ai/hubfs/LegalFAQ/estate-planning-legal-FAQs.jpg
---

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 March 24, 2023

# What is the difference between a living will and a durable power of attorney?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

As a lawyer, I can provide legal advice on the difference between a living will and a durable power of attorney.

A living will, also known as an advance directive, is a legal document that allows an individual to specify their end-of-life medical care preferences in case they become unable to communicate their wishes. With a living will, a person can specify what types of life-sustaining treatments or procedures they do or do not want in such a situation. This can include decisions about resuscitation, artificial nutrition, hydration, pain relief, and organ donation.

A durable power of attorney, on the other hand, is a legal document that appoints a person to make healthcare or financial decisions on behalf of the individual if they become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for themselves. This person is known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, and they have the authority to make decisions about medical treatment, financial matters, or any other issue designated in the document.

The key difference between a living will and a durable power of attorney is that a living will focuses on end-of-life medical care decisions, while a durable power of attorney allows the appointed agent to make healthcare or financial decisions on behalf of the individual in a broader range of circumstances.

It is worth noting that the laws governing living wills and durable powers of attorney vary by jurisdiction. Some states may have specific requirements for the language or format of these documents, or the appointment of agents or proxies. It is important to consult with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure that any documents are drafted and executed properly.

In addition, it is often recommended that individuals have both a living will and a durable power of attorney in place, as they serve complementary purposes in ensuring their wishes are respected in the event of incapacity or illness.

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