Lasting Powers of Attorney Costs UK | Expert Guidance & Fees
What is a Lasting Powers of Attorney?
Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) let you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to do so yourself.
This guide will help you:
- Understand what you are being charged for
- Get affordable Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) documents
- Avoid hidden fees and mistakes
What is mental capacity?
Mental capacity is defined in the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Simply put, mental capacity means that when making a decision you can:
- Understand the decision you need to make
- Understand why the decision is needed
- Understand the information relevant to the decision
- Understand the likely consequences of the decision
You should also be able to communicate your decision through speech, signs, or other means. Without mental capacity, someone cannot make an LPA for themselves. In this case, decisions must go through the courts — which is why it’s wise to set up an LPA earlier rather than later.
Types of powers of attorney
There are two types of LPAs:
1. Health and Welfare LPA
This is used for decisions about your personal wellbeing, including:
- Daily routine
- Medical care
- Life-sustaining treatment
- Financial and Property LPA
This is used for decisions about your finances and property, such as:
- Managing bank accounts
- Paying bills
- Collecting pensions
- Selling property
Do I need an LPA?
Everyone should have a Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA). You never know when you might need it, and it’s particularly important as you get older or if you are at risk of illnesses like dementia.
How can I set up a Power of Attorney?
You can set up an LPA by:
- Completing government forms online
- Seeking professional support from a solicitor or expert will-writing service
Professional guidance ensures your documents are valid, correctly completed, and legally enforceable.
What is the cost of a Lasting Powers of Attorney?
LPA costs generally fall into two categories: document preparation and government registration.
-
Registration fee with the Office of the Public Guardian
You must register your LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Registration typically takes 8–10 weeks if there are no errors.
Cost: £92 per LPA (£184 for both documents)
Fee reductions are available for those earning under £12,000 or receiving certain benefits. More info here -
Other costs for an LPA
The main other cost is for preparing the documents themselves. Solicitor fees can range from £300–£600 per document, with some charging up to £1,000.
Do I need a solicitor to make an LPA?
You don’t have to use a solicitor to create an LPA, but professional support reduces the risk of errors, delays, or rejections from the OPG.
Lasting Powers of Attorney: Why professionals matter
Professional support offers:
- Expert legal support: Avoid mistakes that could cause your LPA to be rejected or delayed.
- Tailored guidance: Ensure your LPA fits your unique needs and circumstances.
- Peace of mind: Relax knowing your documents have been reviewed and submitted correctly.
Did you know?
- Over 40% of LPAs we review need resigning.
- In 2023–2024, 50,000 LPA applications were rejected by the OPG due to errors.
Octopus Legacy LPA Service
Our professional will-writing and LPA service includes:
- Drafting and reviewing both LPA documents
- Reviewing signed documents for accuracy
- Submitting documents for registration with the OPG
- Transparent pricing: £699 for both LPAs per individual (£1,299 per couple), including the OPG registration fee
Can I do it myself?
You can complete an LPA on your own using government forms — this is free. However, **errors are common **and can lead to delays, rejections, or legal complications.
Thinking about setting up a Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)?
While DIY LPAs are possible, mistakes are common and can delay your ability to make decisions if mental capacity is lost. Using professional will-writing support ensures your documents are correct, legally valid, and tailored to your needs.
If you’d like a free, confidential consultation to discuss your LPA and ensure your financial and health decisions are protected, our team can guide you step by step. Get in touch today.
