How to Arrange Power of Attorney in the UK

03rd December 2025

Updated: Thursday 8th January 2026

Arranging a Lasting Power of Attorney is one of the most practical steps you can take to protect yourself and the people you care about. It ensures that if decisions ever need to be made on someone’s behalf, the right people have clear legal authority to act. The process is often simpler than expected, especially when it is done early and with the right guidance.

The most straightforward way to arrange a UK Power of Attorney

Most people now arrange a Power of Attorney using an online service or the government’s digital forms. This approach allows the details to be completed clearly and accurately before following the required signing process.

To create a valid LPA, you will need the person making the LPA, known as the donor, one or more attorneys, a certificate provider to confirm the donor understands what they are doing and witnesses for the signatures. Once completed, the LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

Using a guided online service can reduce errors, explain legal terms in plain English and help avoid delays during registration.

Arranging Power of Attorney for yourself

Most LPAs are arranged by people planning for their own future. As long as you have mental capacity, you can set one up at any age. You decide who your attorneys are and what powers they will have.

There is no legal requirement to use a solicitor in straightforward cases. Many people choose an online service because it provides reassurance without the higher cost of traditional legal advice.

Putting an LPA in place early gives peace of mind. It means decisions about finances, health or care will be made by someone you trust, rather than being left to chance.

Helping a family member put an LPA in place

It is possible to help a relative arrange their Power of Attorney, but only while they still have mental capacity. They must understand the document, make their own choices and agree freely to the appointment of attorneys.

If capacity has already been lost, an LPA can no longer be created. In those circumstances, the only option is to apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship order, which is usually slower, more expensive and more restrictive.

This is why early planning is so important for ageing parents or relatives with emerging health concerns.

Choosing the right time to act

There is no perfect moment, but earlier is almost always better. Many people only think about LPAs after a diagnosis or health scare, yet setting one up proactively is far less stressful.

Common triggers include managing joint finances, planning for retirement, supporting older parents or receiving a medical diagnosis that may affect capacity in the future.

Covering both finances and welfare decisions

A Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows attorneys to manage money, bills, property and savings. A Health and Welfare LPA covers medical treatment, care arrangements, and daily living decisions.

These are separate documents. Most people choose to create both so that all key areas of life are protected.

Timeframes and costs to expect

Completing an LPA online usually takes under an hour. Registration with the Office of the Public Guardian typically takes several weeks, and the document cannot be used until this is complete.

Costs vary depending on whether you use the government service, an online provider like Power of Attorney Online or a solicitor. For many families, digital services offer the right balance of affordability, clarity and support.

Arranging Power of Attorney is a sensible step that protects everyone involved. When done early and properly, it removes uncertainty and ensures trusted people can act when it matters most.