A power of attorney is a fairly flexible tool in that you can use it to grant someone power for only one kind of situation or for many situations more generally.nnThere are several different types, including:nnGeneral power of attorney: Gives someone broad powers to act on your behalf, such as signing contracts, settling claims, handling your mail, managing your assets, and estate planningnA Durable power of attorney: A general power of attorney with a provision that keeps the original power in effect in the event that you become mentally incapacitatednHealthcare power of attorney: Allows someone to make decisions about your health and medical care if you cannotnBusiness power of attorney: Grants someone the authority to take care of part or all of your businessnReal estate power of attorney: Gives someone the ability to make real estate deals on your behalfnFunding power of attorney: Allows someone to sign your name to transfer assets into your trust