To understand what a durable power of attorney is, it’s important to understand what a basic power of attorney is. A power of attorney, you appoint someone as your agent. This person can act on your behalf in your financial affairs. A durable power of attorney is the type of power of attorney when a person becomes incompetent, can no longer make decisions, the power of attorney is still in force and effect if it’s a durable power of attorney. If it’s not a durable power of attorney, once the person loses the competence, the agent can no longer act on their behalf.