Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
A legal document letting you appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. Two types: Health & Welfare and Property & Financial.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you (the donor) choose who can make decisions for you if you're unable to make them yourself.
Two Types of LPA
Property and Financial Affairs LPA:
- Managing bank accounts and bills
- Buying and selling property
- Dealing with tax, pensions, and benefits
- Can be used while you still have capacity (with your permission)
Health and Welfare LPA:
- Medical treatment decisions
- Where you live
- Daily care (washing, dressing, eating)
- Can only be used when you lack capacity
Why LPAs Matter
Without an LPA, if you lose capacity your family would need to apply to the Court of Protection for deputyship - a costly and stressful process. An LPA gives you control over who makes decisions and how.
Common questions
How much does an LPA cost?
The registration fee is £82 per LPA (£164 for both types). Professional help typically costs £300-600 per LPA or £500-900 for both.
Can I make an LPA if I have dementia?
Only if you still have mental capacity to understand the LPA. Early-stage dementia may allow this, but you should act quickly.
Do I need both types of LPA?
It's strongly recommended. Without both, decisions in the missing area would require court applications if you lose capacity.
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