Your Complete Guide to Power of Attorney Services

By Matt Cresswell, Founder at Power of Attorney Online and author of
Everything you ever wanted to know about LPAs (but were afraid to ask)

31st October 2025

Updated: Monday 30th March 2026

Life has an unfortunate way of throwing you a curveball. Whether you’re planning ahead yourself or helping a loved one, understanding how to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney means you’ll shave peace of mind, whatever the future holds.

What does and LPA legally mean?

In simple terms, an LPA is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so.

There are two main areas the two available LPA’s cover: your health and welfare, then your property and finances. Once registered, an LPA ensures that decisions can only be made in your best interests, by people who genuinely understand your wishes and what you would’ve wanted.

Unlike older, now defunct documents, such as Enduring Powers of Attorney, an LPA remains valid and is a powerful safeguard for your future if you ever need it.

What are the different types of POA

When people talk about a power of attorney, they’re usually referring to one of two things. Understanding the difference helps you choose what’s right for your situation.

• A Health and Welfare LPA will covers decisions about medical treatment, daily care and where you live. It’s not widely understood that it only comes into effect if you lose mental capacity.
• A Property and Financial Affairs LPA lets someone handle your finances, from paying bills to managing investments or selling property. This can be used as soon as it’s registered, but only if you choose.

They serve a different purpose, but both aim for the same outcome of protecting your interests and making life easier if and when things get complicated.

How can I set up a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Setting up an LPA can feel daunting, but doesn’t have to be hard. Guided online power of attorney services like Power of Attorney Online help you navigate the process faster and simpler than ever. You’ll fill out your forms, with expert guidance at every step if you need it.

Once signed in the correct order, which is a big thing a lot of people get wrong, and witnessed, your LPA is sent to the OPG for registration.

I’ve found it helpful to think about setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney as one of the most practical and caring things to do for yourself and your family. Whether it’s managing money or making health decisions down the line, having the right plan in place means fewer worries and smoother sailing ahead for everyone.

Written by Matt Cresswell

Matt Cresswell is the Founder of Power of Attorney Online, a service helping people across England and Wales create Lasting Powers of Attorney through guided online support and expert document reviews. He founded the business following his father's diagnosis with dementia, after experiencing first-hand how confusing the LPA process can be for families. Matt's expertise focuses on Lasting Powers of Attorney, planning ahead and helping families prepare for the future before a crisis occurs.