Guide · checked 18 September 2026

Lasting power of attorney, done right first time

A lasting power of attorney lets people you trust deal with your money and your care if you cannot. 77% of over-55s have none. It costs £92 each on GOV.UK, and 133,760 applications were rejected in 2024 for mistakes this page prevents.

The two types

• Property and financial affairs. The bank, the bills, the house. Can be used as soon as it is registered, if you choose.
• Health and welfare. Care, treatment and where you live. Only used once you cannot decide for yourself.

Most people need both. Without them, a family has to apply to the Court of Protection, which takes months and costs thousands.

Who to appoint

One or more attorneys, and ideally a replacement. Decide whether they act “jointly” (all must agree, which fails if one dies) or “jointly and severally” (any can act, which is more practical). Attorneys must be over 18 and, for the finance one, not bankrupt.

The signing order that stops most rejections

1. The donor signs first, with a witness.
2. The certificate provider signs next: someone who has known you for two years, or a professional, who confirms you understand it. They cannot be an attorney or a relative.
3. Each attorney signs, with a witness. An attorney cannot witness the donor’s signature.
4. The applicant signs last.

Use full names, never initials. Date every signature. Keep the pages in order and send them all.

Fee and time

£92 per power of attorney from 17 November 2025, halved if income is under £12,000. GOV.UK says 8 to 10 weeks; many people report 14 to 20 weeks in 2026. Forms must still be printed and signed in ink; the digital service is not yet live.

Sources: GOV.UK make and register a lasting power of attorney; Office of the Public Guardian annual report 2025-26; Canada Life research (Oct 2025).