Why So Many UK Power of Attorney Applications Are Rejected and How Families Can Avoid It

24th March 2025

Updated: Tuesday 30th December 2025

Applying for a Lasting Power of Attorney should be a reassuring step, yet thousands of families face unexpected delays each year. Recent figures from the Office of the Public Guardian show that more than 50,000 LPA applications were rejected in a single year, often due to simple but critical mistakes. Understanding why this happens helps families protect themselves more effectively.

Why are UK Lasting Power of Attorney applications rejected so often?

Most LPA rejections are caused by avoidable errors rather than complex legal issues. Common problems include missing signatures, incorrect dates, mismatched names, and signatures completed in the wrong order. Even minor inconsistencies can lead to the Office of the Public Guardian returning an application.

With over 1.3 million LPAs submitted in a year, the OPG applies strict checks to every form. Any error means the application must be corrected and resubmitted, adding weeks or months to the process.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney and why does accuracy matter?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions if you lose mental capacity. These decisions may relate to health and welfare, including medical treatment and care, or to property and financial affairs such as paying bills and managing assets.

Because an LPA grants significant legal authority, the law requires the document to be completed precisely. Errors can leave families without legal power at crucial moments, such as during illness, hospital discharge or sudden incapacity.

What happens to families when an LPA is rejected?

When an LPA is rejected, families may assume it is a minor setback. In reality, rejection can leave loved ones unable to act when decisions need to be made quickly. If capacity is lost before the corrected LPA is registered, families may need to apply to the Court of Protection. This process is expensive, time consuming and emotionally draining.

For many, rejection only highlights the importance of getting it right the first time.

How does Power of Attorney Online reduce rejection risks?

Power of Attorney Online was created after its founder experienced the stress of arranging an LPA following a dementia diagnosis in his own family. The platform is designed to prevent the most common causes of rejection by guiding users step by step through the process.

Built in checks help ensure details are consistent, sections are completed correctly, and signatures follow the legal order required by the OPG. This practical support significantly reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes.

Why do experts recommend planning an LPA early?

Financial and legal professionals consistently warn against leaving LPA planning too late. An LPA can only be created while someone has mental capacity. Once capacity is lost, it is no longer an option.

Experts often compare an LPA to a living will for decision making. Planning early provides peace of mind and ensures families are legally empowered when it matters most.

How families can protect themselves with confidence

With rejection rates rising, careful preparation is essential. Using a guided service helps families avoid unnecessary delays, stress, and legal barriers. Power of Attorney Online offers a secure, affordable and legally compliant way to prepare LPAs that meet OPG requirements.

Getting it right first time means your wishes are protected and your loved ones are supported when they need it most.