EPAs and why you should have one already

Your never know when you might need someone to make a big decision while you’re still living.  

An enduring power of attorney (EPA) is a living will; a legal document which is designed to be put in place during your lifetime to protect your assets and welfare on your behalf if you’re no longer able to.  An EPA is useful if you are overseas, unwell, or simply want someone else to take responsibility for your affairs. 

These big decisions are about your care, like which rest home you might go into, or medical treatments and your property and finances, like managing your bank accounts, selling your property, and paying your bills. 

Having an EPA in place before it’s needed ensures that if anything ever happens there is someone who can step in and legally represent you and your wishes.

There are two types of EPA:

1. Enduring power of attorney for property and finance

In the event of an illness or injury, or as you get older and find it too much to maintain, you may be unable to take care of your property and finances on your own. Or, you may simply want to put that responsibility in someone else’s hands. Choosing an attorney under your Enduring Power of Attorney for Property to make decisions and act on your behalf, will give you the peace of mind that this will all be taken care of.

2. Enduring power of attorney for personal care and welfare

If you need someone to make decisions for you about your health and welfare, having an enduring power of attorney (EPA) in place ensures that your best interests are being looked after.

Public Trust, in partnership with HealthCarePlus, offers a 20% discount on their online services for the preparation of wills and enduring powers of attorney (EPA). Plus, you’ll automatically be entered into a weekly draw to win a $500 grocery voucher—to help you focus on living.

(**) T&C’s apply. Promotion ends 27 April 2025.