**Agent** (noun) — A person authorized, either expressly or implicitly, to act on behalf of another (the principal) and to bind that person in dealings with third parties within the scope of the authority granted.
An agent is someone you give permission to act for you. They might sign documents on your behalf, make decisions, or handle transactions—depending on what authority you've given them.
The relationship requires trust: your agent can bind you legally to whatever they do within their authority.
⏱ When you'll encounter this term
In estate planning, the term agent often appears in powers of attorney, where you appoint someone as your attorney (agent) to make financial or medical decisions if you can't.
The scope of an agent's authority should be clearly defined. A general power of attorney gives broad powers; a limited power might only authorize specific transactions, like selling a particular property. Always choose someone trustworthy and capable—your agent's decisions are legally your decisions.
**Related terms:** [Power of Attorney](/dictionary/power-of-attorney), [Attorney-in-Fact](/dictionary/attorney-in-fact), [Principal](/dictionary/principal), [Enduring Power of Attorney](/dictionary/enduring-power-of-attorney)
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"I appointed my sister as my agent under power of attorney so she can manage my finances if I'm ever unable to."