Plan a lasting power of attorney

What an LPA does

These LPA rules apply in England and Wales. Find the right power of attorney route for Scotland or Northern Ireland.

A lasting power of attorney, or LPA, is a legal document. You are called the donor. The people you choose are your attorneys. They do not have to be lawyers.

You must be 18 or over and have mental capacity to make an LPA. This means you can make this decision for yourself. Being a spouse or close relative does not, by itself, give someone this legal authority.

Choose one type or both

• Property and financial affairs: help with bills, bank accounts and property. After registration, it can be used while you can still decide if the document allows this and you give permission.
• Health and welfare: decisions about care and medical treatment. It can be used only when you cannot make the particular decision yourself.

The two types are separate documents. An LPA is for your lifetime and ends when you die. A will deals with what happens after death.

Talk to the people you trust

Ask before naming anyone. Think about their skills, time and ability to work with others. Decide how several attorneys would make decisions and who could replace them.

Use the LPA planning checklist to work through these choices. You can read it on screen or print a copy for your own notes.

Choose how to prepare your LPA

Use the official service

Make your LPA through GOV.UK. There is no preparation-service charge. You still print, sign and send the documents for registration. The government fee may apply.

Optional paid help from Which?

Which? Power of Attorney, from Which? Ltd, offers guided preparation and specialist review. You still print, sign and submit the documents. Check its current price, included support and suitability. Its service charge is separate from the government fee.

Visit Which? Power of Attorney — external paid service, opens in a new tab

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Check before you apply

Read the signing guide and current fees and timing. An LPA cannot be used until it is registered.

If someone can no longer decide to make an LPA, you cannot make one for them. Check any existing documents and GOV.UK guidance on the Court of Protection. Get advice if capacity, pressure or complex instructions are a concern.