Martin Lewis on Power of Attorney: Why It Can Matter More Than a Will

02nd March 2026

Martin Lewis on Power of Attorney is a topic that often surprises people. The well known money expert Martin Lewis has repeatedly stressed that, for many families, setting up a lasting power of attorney can be even more urgent than writing a will.

That is not because wills are unimportant. It is because a power of attorney protects you while you are alive.

Understanding why this matters can change how you prioritise your planning.

Why Does Martin Lewis Say a Power of Attorney Can Be More Crucial Than a Will?

A will only takes effect after death.

A lasting power of attorney works during your lifetime.

If you lose mental capacity through illness, accident or dementia, no one automatically has the legal right to manage your finances or make decisions about your care.

Not your spouse. Not your children.

Without an LPA, your family must apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship order. That process can be slow, costly and stressful.

This is the gap Martin Lewis highlights.

A will cannot help if you are still alive but unable to make decisions.

What Problems Can Happen Without a Lasting Power of Attorney?

If there is no registered LPA in place, banks may freeze accounts.

Bills can go unpaid.

Property sales can be delayed.

Care decisions can be harder to organise.

Even joint accounts do not guarantee full access.

Families are often shocked to discover how limited their authority is.

The financial and emotional strain can be significant at an already difficult time.

How Is a Lasting Power of Attorney Different From a Will?

A will deals with your estate after death.

A lasting power of attorney covers decisions while you are alive but lack mental capacity.

There are two types of LPA in England and Wales:

• Property and Financial Affairs LPA
• Health and Welfare LPA

Together, they protect both your money and your personal wellbeing.

A will and an LPA do different jobs. They are not alternatives. They are complementary.

Is a Power of Attorney Only for Older People?

No.

Loss of capacity can happen at any age.

Serious accidents, strokes or unexpected illness can affect younger adults too.

That is why Martin Lewis often says it is not just about later life planning.

It is about being prepared.

Many people sort out insurance and pensions but delay making an LPA. Yet an LPA can be just as important.

Why Do So Many People Delay Setting Up an LPA?

Some believe their spouse can automatically step in.

Others think it is complicated or expensive.

In reality, applying for a lasting power of attorney online is straightforward when you understand the process.

The key is getting the details right and registering it with the Office of the Public Guardian.

Once registered, it sits there quietly, ready if ever needed.

What Is the Takeaway From Martin Lewis’ Advice?

The core message is simple.

A will protects your wishes after death.

A lasting power of attorney protects your control during life.

For many families, the financial and practical consequences of not having an LPA can be felt immediately.

That is why it is often described as more urgent.

If you are planning responsibly, you should strongly consider both.

Sorting out a power of attorney using a service like Power of Attorney Online is not about fear. It is about making sure the people you trust can act quickly and legally if life takes an unexpected turn.