How do I set up a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people (known as 'attorneys') to help you make decisions or to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

An attorney can be anyone over the age of 18, such as a family member, friend, or a professional. They should be someone you trust.

There are two types of LPA: Property and Financial Affairs, and Health and Welfare.

The Property and Financial Affairs LPA covers decisions about your money and property. The Health and Welfare LPA covers decisions about your healthcare and personal welfare.

Choose people you trust, as they will have significant responsibility. Discuss your decision with them and ensure they agree to take on the role.

Yes, you can appoint more than one attorney, and there's no maximum number. You can specify whether they must make decisions together or can act separately.

A replacement attorney steps in if your original choice is unable or unwilling to act. It’s good to have replacements as a safeguard.

You can start by downloading the forms from the government website or using an online application service. You need to fill them out carefully according to your preferences.

You don’t need a solicitor to create an LPA. However, you may want to consult one for advice, especially in complex situations.

You, your attorneys, any replacement attorneys, and a certificate provider (someone who confirms you understand the LPA) must sign the form.

A certificate provider is a person who confirms that you understand what the LPA is and aren't being pressured to make one. They can be someone you know well or a professional with relevant skills.

As of the latest information, the registration fee is £82 per LPA. You might be eligible for a reduction or exemption based on your financial situation.

Once completed, you need to send the form to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) for registration.

It typically takes up to 10 weeks to register an LPA, provided there are no mistakes or objections.

Yes, as long as you have the mental capacity to do so, you can cancel an LPA at any time before it is needed.

If there is an objection, the Office of the Public Guardian will investigate before the LPA can be registered.

You should inform the relevant parties, such as your bank or healthcare providers, once your LPA is registered, to make them aware of your appointed attorneys.

For a Health and Welfare LPA, attorneys can only make decisions when you no longer have capacity. For a Property and Financial Affairs LPA, you can choose for it to be used as soon as it is registered.

An LPA is a legal document within the UK jurisdiction and its recognition outside the UK depends on the local laws of the other country.

If your circumstances change, such as a change in relationship with your attorney, you should review your LPA. You may need to create a new one if significant changes are needed.