Your will is not effective prior to your death. For that time period, a Statutory Power of Attorney (also known as a Financial or Durable Power of Attorney) allows you to name an agent to make financial decisions for you if you are incapacitated or out of the country. This is a powerful document, and you will want to make sure that the agent you name is trustworthy. If you are married, your spouse is the likely agent, but you can name anyone you want.