Some provinces have laws that distinguish between decision-making powers over personal and financial matters. The law may set out specific powers that the decision-maker has or leave the power open. When granting an application for another person to have decision-making powers for another, the court will ultimately determine what powers should apply.

Typical decision-making powers with regard to personal matters would include

• where a person lives,
• who the person lives with,
• what social activities the person can engage in,
• where the person might work,
• what health care is appropriate, and
• normal day-to-day decisions about dress and diet.

Typical decision-making powers regarding financial matters would include

• investing money in authorized investments;
• consenting to the transfer or assignment of a lease;
• drawing, accepting, or endorsing some financial instruments;
• carrying on a trade or business; and
• disposing of property.