When Should an LPA be Updated?

02nd January 2026

Updated: Friday 30th January 2026

When should an LPA be updated? is something many people overlook once their paperwork is complete. Creating an LPA is a vital step in protecting your future, but it is not a document that should be left untouched for decades. As life changes, your plans and priorities can change too. Regularly reviewing your LPA helps ensure it still reflects your wishes and continues to protect you in the way you intended.

How Often Should an LPA Be Reviewed?

There is no legal expiry date on a Lasting Power of Attorney.

As best practice, your LPA should be reviewed every three to five years, or sooner if your circumstances change. A review does not mean you must replace it, but it allows you to check that your chosen attorneys, instructions, and preferences are still appropriate.

When Should an LPA Be Updated?

An LPA should be reconsidered whenever there is a significant life event.

Common triggers for reviewing or updating an LPA include marriage, divorce, separation, bereavement, a serious illness, or changes in financial circumstances. If your attorneys move abroad, become unwell or no longer feel suitable, it may be time to make a new LPA.

What Happens If Circumstances Change on Your LPA?

Many people ask whether small changes can be added later.

Once an LPA has been signed and registered, it cannot be amended. If your circumstances change and the LPA no longer reflects your wishes, you must revoke it and create a new one, as long as you still have mental capacity.

This rule exists to keep LPAs clear and legally certain.

Does an LPA End If Relationships Change?

Some relationship changes have a direct legal impact.

If you divorce or dissolve a civil partnership, your former spouse or civil partner will usually no longer be able to act as your attorney unless the LPA specifically says otherwise. In this situation, the rest of the LPA may still be valid, but it can create gaps if no replacement attorneys are named.

If a relationship simply breaks down without divorce, the attorney remains legally appointed unless you revoke the LPA.

What If an Attorney Can No Longer Act?

Attorneys may become unable or unwilling to continue.

If an attorney dies, loses capacity, or chooses to step down, the impact depends on how your LPA was set up. If you appointed attorneys jointly, the LPA may stop working. If you appointed them jointly and severally, the remaining attorneys can usually continue. Naming replacement attorneys is one of the best ways to protect against future disruption.

Do You Need to Update an LPA for Minor Changes?

Not every change requires a new document.

Minor updates, such as a change of address or contact details, do not usually require a new LPA. However, these details should be kept up to date with banks, care providers, and anyone holding a copy of your LPA.

Why Regular Reviews Matter

An outdated LPA can cause delays, confusion, or disputes at the worst possible time.

Regular reviews ensure your attorneys are still the right people, your wishes are clear, and your LPA will work exactly as intended if it is ever needed.

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a powerful document, but it should grow with your life. Reviewing it every few years and after major changes helps keep you protected and in control.

Power of Attorney Online makes it easy to create a new LPA if needed, with clear guidance and support every step of the way. Taking time to review your LPA today could save stress and uncertainty tomorrow.