If there comes a time when you’re too unwell to manage your own finances or make choices about your health and care, setting up a power of attorney will make sure someone you trust can step in to help. This legal document gives one or more people, called attorneys, the authority to make decisions for you if you lose the ability to do so yourself.

Types of Lasting Power of Attorney

In England and Wales, there are two types of lasting power of attorney, and you can make either or both. A Property and Financial Affairs LPA lets your attorney look after your financial matters, such as paying bills, managing bank accounts or collecting benefits and pensions. A Health and Welfare LPA covers decisions about your medical treatment, care arrangements and day-to-day routines. This only comes into effect if you become unable to make these decisions yourself. You can find more details at the government website

Why and When to Set One Up

Putting a power of attorney in place can be reassuring for you and those close to you, and it’s useful if you have a progressive or life-limiting illness. It’s best to arrange your LPA early, while you still have the mental capacity to make and communicate decisions. Services like https://powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/ can help you set up an LPA online.

Registration with the Office of the Public Guardian can take up to 20 weeks, so it’s worth acting quickly. You’ll stay in control, and as long as you have capacity, you can cancel your LPA at any time.