How to Register a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) 

Registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a crucial step in ensuring that someone you trust can make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. Here’s a clear and simple guide on how to register an LPA in England and Wales.

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1. Choose the Type of LPA

There are two types of LPA:

• • Property and Financial Affairs LPA – lets someone make decisions about money, property, and finances.

• • Health and Welfare LPA – lets someone make decisions about medical treatment, daily care, and living arrangements.

You can choose one or both types depending on your needs.

2. Select Your Attorney(s)

You must choose one or more attorneys who are:

• • Over 18 years old

• • Capable and trustworthy

• • Not bankrupt (for financial LPAs)

You can appoint multiple attorneys to act:

• • Jointly – all decisions must be made together

• • Jointly and severally – attorneys can act together or independently

3. Complete the LPA Forms

You can do this:

• • Online via GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney

• • Using paper forms: Download and print from the GOV.UK website or order by phone

You will need to include:

• • Your details (the “donor”)

• • Details of your chosen attorney(s)

• • How you want the LPA to operate

• • A “certificate provider” who confirms you understand what you’re doing

4. Sign the Forms in the Correct Order

The signing order is critical:

1. 1. Donor signs first

1. 1. Certificate provider signs next

1. 1. Attorney(s) sign last

Each signature must be witnessed, and everyone must sign the same version of the form.

5. Send the Forms to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG)

Send your completed and signed forms to:

Office of the Public Guardian

PO Box 16185
Birmingham
B2 2WH

Include the correct registration fee:

£82 per LPA (i.e. £164 for both types)

You may be eligible for a fee reduction or exemption based on income or benefits

6. Wait for the LPA to Be Registered

The registration process usually takes up to 20 weeks (as of 2025), depending on workload and if forms are filled out correctly. The OPG checks for errors and notifies parties involved.

There is a mandatory 4-week objection period, during which certain people (e.g. family members) can object to the registration if they have valid concerns.

7. Receive the Registered LPA

Once registered:

• • You’ll get a stamped official copy of the LPA

• • Attorneys can now use it (immediately for financial LPAs; only when capacity is lost for health LPAs)

Important Notes

• • Mental capacity: You must have mental capacity when making an LPA.

• • Changes: You can’t amend an LPA once it’s registered. You’d need to cancel and make a new one.

• • Scottish and Northern Irish LPAs: These follow different rules; visit the relevant national websites.

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If you’re unsure or need assistance, consider speaking to a solicitor or specialist service to help guide you through the process.