What is the difference between a springing durable power of attorney and an immediate durable power of attorney?

A “Springing Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)” only takes effect upon a doctor’s declaration of your incapacity (which means you lack the cognitive ability to take care of your affairs). Until your DPOA agent has a written declaration from a doctor, your Springing DPOA does not take effect. An “Immediate DPOA” is exactly what you think it is – it takes effect immediately upon signing and does not require a doctor’s written declaration to take effect, which means your DPOA agent can act on your behalf immediately regardless of your incapacity.