Protecting your future with a lasting power of attorney is easier than you think

Nobody wants to think the unthinkable, that there could come a time when we might not be able to make crucial decisions, but there are ways to plan and protect ourselves from this by having a lasting power of attorney in place now.

What is a lasting power of attorney?

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets people you trust quickly and easily step in when you need it most. It not only gives you a voice, it protects your decisions.

You may think your partner or close family members can make decisions for you if you’re not able to, but this is not the case.

If mental capacity is lost, who will ensure your care bills are paid and your finances are managed? Without a lasting power of attorney, your loved ones face a long legal process to act on your behalf.

How do I get started?

1. Start a conversation with someone you trust

First, talk to someone you would trust to carry out your wishes.

This doesn’t have to be a partner or family member and you can name more than one person if you want. 

They need to be 18 or over and fully understand the role they’ll be carrying out. Take time to talk it through so that they understand your choices and decisions.

2. Decide which lasting power of attorney (LPA) is right for you

There are two types but you can have both:

• finance and property: handles bills, bank accounts, benefits and selling your home, you control when this can be used
• health and welfare: covers daily routine, medical care, care home decisions, and life-sustaining treatmentonly used when you’re unable to decide for yourself

3. Start your application

Go to GOV.UK and choose to either:  

• start your application online with guidance at every step
• download, print and fill in the forms by hand  

How much will it cost?

A government application costs £82 to register each LPA. You may be able to reduce this or not pay a fee at all if you earn less than £12,000 a year or receive certain benefits.

To see if you’re entitled to a reduction of the fee, and to apply for one alongside your LPA application, you can download and fill in the application form on GOV.UK. You can also speak to your normal family solicitor for advice.

I’m young and healthy – why do I need to do this now?

Life can be unpredictable nobody wants to think about the worst-case scenario but being prepared not only gives you peace of mind but can lighten the load for your loved ones. 

• LPAs are only used if needed but by setting one up now, you ensure a trusted person can step in when it matters most
• avoid unpaid debt care isn’t free, and an LPA ensures payments continue without delay
• save time and stress without an LPA, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection, a lengthy process that can be avoided by planning your future now

Don’t wait apply for a lasting power of attorney today: https://www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney.