What’s the Difference Between an LPA and a Will?
14th April 2025
The short answer:
An LPA appoints someone to make decisions for you while you're alive but unable to do so yourself. A will sets out who inherits your estate after you die. They cover different periods of life and most people need both.
Updated: Thursday 29th January 2026
What’s the Difference Between an LPA and a Will? This is a question many people ask when they start planning for the future. While both are essential parts of a well thought out plan, they serve very different legal purposes at different stages of your life. Understanding how a Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney work, and why you may need both, helps ensure your wishes are respected during your lifetime and after you die, with clarity and legal certainty.
What is a Will and when does it apply?
A Will is a legal document that sets out what should happen to your estate after you die. It only takes effect once you have passed away and has no legal power during your lifetime.
A Will allows you to clearly state who should inherit your money, property, and personal belongings. It also lets you appoint guardians for children under 18 and name an executor to carry out your wishes. You can also include funeral preferences if you wish.
Without a valid Will, your estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy. This can mean your assets go to people you did not intend to benefit and can create stress and uncertainty for your family.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney and when is it used?
A Lasting Power of Attorney, often shortened to LPA, is a legal document that protects you while you are still alive. It allows you to appoint one or more trusted people, known as attorneys, to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.
There are two types of LPA in the UK. A Property and Financial Affairs LPA covers decisions about money, bills, savings, and property. A Health and Welfare LPA covers decisions about medical treatment, care, and where you live.
An LPA must be made and registered with the Office of the Public Guardian while you still have mental capacity. Without one, even close family members have no automatic legal right to manage your affairs.
Can a Will replace a Lasting Power of Attorney?
No. A Will cannot replace a Lasting Power of Attorney. This is a common misunderstanding.
A Will only applies after death, whereas an LPA applies during your lifetime if you become unable to make decisions yourself. If you lose capacity without an LPA in place, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship. This process can be slow, expensive and emotionally draining.
Having a Will does not give anyone authority to act for you while you are alive.
Why is it important to have both in place?
A Will and an LPA work together to give you full legal protection. An LPA ensures your finances, health, and welfare are managed according to your wishes during your lifetime. A Will ensures your estate is handled properly after you die.
Together, they provide clarity, reduce disputes, and give peace of mind to you and your family.
What is the best next step for future planning?
The best time to put both documents in place is now, while you have full capacity and can make clear choices. A Lasting Power of Attorney is just as important as a Will, even if you are young and healthy.
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