Register an LPA
How to Register a Lasting Power of Attorney
Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is only part of the process. Before it can normally be used, it must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Many people prepare an LPA but delay registration until it is urgently needed.
Unfortunately, this can cause significant delays at exactly the time when important financial or healthcare decisions need to be made.
Registering your LPA as soon as it has been properly completed helps ensure it is ready if it is ever required.
Why Does an LPA Need to Be Registered?
Registration allows the Office of the Public Guardian to check that:
- The document has been completed correctly.
- The legal requirements have been met.
- There are no obvious reasons why it should not be registered.
Without registration, attorneys will generally be unable to rely on the LPA when dealing with banks, healthcare providers or other organisations.
When Should You Register an LPA?
Many solicitors recommend registering an LPA shortly after it has been signed.
Benefits include:
- Avoiding future delays.
- Ensuring the document is ready when needed.
- Reducing stress for your family.
- Identifying any issues while they can still be corrected.
Waiting until someone loses mental capacity can make matters much more complicated — at that point, family members without a registered LPA may need to apply to the Court of Protection instead.
What Information Is Needed?
The registration process will usually require:
- The completed LPA.
- Details of the donor.
- Details of the attorneys.
- Required signatures.
- Any applicable registration fee or evidence supporting a fee exemption or reduction.
Requirements may change, so always check the latest GOV.UK guidance before submitting an application.
How Long Does Registration Take?
Registration is not immediate. Current GOV.UK guidance states that registration typically takes several weeks where there are no errors in the application.
Processing times vary depending on:
- Application volumes.
- Whether the forms have been completed correctly.
- Whether additional information is required.
Submitting accurate documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Common Reasons for Delay
Applications may take longer if:
- Information is missing.
- Signatures are incorrect.
- Pages have been completed in the wrong order.
- Required sections have been omitted.
- Supporting documents are incomplete.
Carefully checking the paperwork before submission can reduce the likelihood of problems.
Can a Solicitor Register an LPA?
Yes. Many solicitors prepare and register LPAs on behalf of clients.
Professional assistance can help ensure:
- The forms are completed correctly.
- Instructions are clearly drafted.
- Attorneys are appointed appropriately.
- Registration proceeds as smoothly as possible.
What Happens After Registration?
Once registered, the LPA can be used in accordance with its terms.
Depending on the type of LPA:
- A Property and Financial Affairs LPA may be used immediately if the donor has authorised this.
- A Health and Welfare LPA generally becomes effective only if the donor loses mental capacity.
Attorneys must always act in the donor’s best interests.
Compare Lasting Power of Attorney Solicitors Near You
Find a Funeral helps you compare experienced solicitors who can prepare and register your Lasting Power of Attorney, helping ensure your future wishes are legally protected.
In most cases, no. Registration is generally required before an LPA can be used.
Yes. Property and Financial Affairs LPAs and Health and Welfare LPAs each require registration.
Provided it meets the legal requirements, it may still be possible to register it. A solicitor can advise on your individual circumstances.