Is a Lasting Power of Attorney Expensive or Just Good Value for Money?

26th June 2025

Let’s be honest: no one enjoys spending money on legal paperwork. When it comes to setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney, it’s easy to see the price tag and think, “Is this really worth it?” But the real question isn’t whether an LPA is expensive, it’s whether it’s good value. And in most cases, the answer is a resounding yes.

What Does an LPA Actually Cost?

If you go the traditional route through a solicitor, it can cost a thousand pounds plus, depending on the complexity and who you hire. On top of that, there’s the £82 fee per LPA charged by the Office of the Public Guardian to register it. That’s £164 if you’re setting up both a Health & Welfare and Property & Financial Affairs LPA, which is what most experts recommend for full peace of mind.

But more affordable options do exist. Online services, like Power of Attorney Online, make it possible to complete your LPA from the comfort of home, without the solicitor price tag. These services typically offer clear, guided support for a fraction of the cost, while still helping you avoid common errors.

The Real Cost of Not Having an LPA

Now here’s the thing: the cost of not having an LPA can be far greater, both financially and emotionally. If you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself and there’s no LPA in place, your family would need to apply to the Court of Protection to take over. That process can cost thousands, take months and involve repeated court fees year after year.

Not only that, but without an LPA, no one has the legal right to access your bank accounts, make decisions about your care or even speak on your behalf with utility providers or healthcare teams. That can leave your loved ones powerless right when they most want to help.

So, Is It Value for Money?

Absolutely. An LPA is one of those things you hope you never need, but if you do, it becomes priceless. For a relatively low one-off cost, you’re giving the people you trust the legal authority to step in and act in your best interests. That can prevent delays, confusion, and even family conflict at a difficult time.

Think of it like insurance: something you put in place just in case. And considering how much smoother life can be for your family if the unexpected happens, it’s hard to see it as anything other than good value.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney isn’t just a financial decision, it’s a caring one. It’s about looking ahead and making sure the people you trust are empowered to help when it really matters. And when you look at it that way, the cost becomes a smart investment in peace of mind, for you and for them.