LPA Delays and Errors Explained

16th January 2026

LPA Delays and Errors Explained is a topic many families only discover when something has already gone wrong. Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney can feel straightforward, but small mistakes or misunderstandings can lead to long delays or rejected applications. Knowing what causes problems and what can be fixed helps donors and attorneys avoid stress and plan with confidence.

What happens if LPA signatures are completed in the wrong order?

The order of signatures on a Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal requirement, not a formality. The donor must sign first, followed by the certificate provider, and then the attorneys. If this sequence is not followed exactly, the LPA is invalid.

When the Office of the Public Guardian reviews an application and spots a signing order error, the document will usually be rejected. In most cases, it cannot simply be amended. A fresh LPA must be completed and signed again, which means paying the registration fee again and restarting the waiting period.

This is one of the most common reasons LPAs fail. It often happens when people print forms and ask everyone to sign at the same time, not realising the importance of sequence.

What causes delays after sending an LPA to the OPG?

Even when an LPA is correctly completed, delays can still occur. The OPG processes hundreds of thousands of applications each year, and review times vary depending on demand. However, certain issues regularly slow things down.

Common causes include missing information, mismatched names or addresses, unclear instructions, or concerns raised during the statutory waiting period. If someone named to be notified raises an objection, the OPG must investigate before registration can proceed.

Delays also happen when documents are unclear or difficult to verify. Handwritten forms, corrections made incorrectly, or inconsistent details can all trigger additional checks. Each query adds weeks to the process.

Can an LPA be corrected after submission?

Whether an LPA can be corrected depends on the type of error. Minor administrative issues, such as small spelling mistakes or formatting problems, can sometimes be resolved if the OPG contacts the applicant and allows clarification.

However, more serious errors cannot be fixed once the LPA has been submitted. These include signing in the wrong order, missing signatures, or using an incorrect certificate provider. In these situations, the application is usually cancelled and must be started again from the beginning.

This distinction is important. Many people assume all mistakes can be corrected, but the law is strict because an LPA gives significant legal authority.

Why careful preparation makes a real difference

Most LPA delays and rejections are preventable. Taking time to complete the forms accurately, understanding the signing process and checking details before submission can save months of waiting and extra costs.

Using a guided online service adds an extra layer of protection. Forms are reviewed before submission, instructions are clear and common pitfalls are avoided. This reduces the risk of rejection and gives reassurance that the application meets OPG standards.

Understanding what happens if signatures are completed in the wrong order, what causes delays after sending an LPA to the OPG, and whether an LPA can be corrected after submission helps families plan realistically. It turns a confusing process into a manageable one.

Power of Attorney Online supports donors and attorneys through every step, helping ensure LPAs are completed correctly the first time, so protection is in place when it is needed most.