The Cheapest Way to Apply for a Power of Attorney (Without Cutting Corners)

17th July 2025

Updated: Thursday 15th January 2026

What is The Cheapest Way to Apply for a Power of Attorney (Without Cutting Corners) is often the next question many people ask after they realise they want to apply for Lasting Power of Attorney. The obvious challenge is doing it properly without paying more than you need to. There are a few options that help you save money while still ending up with a legally valid LPA.

is there anything that makes one Power of Attorney cheaper than another?

The cost of your Power of Attorney really depends less on the document itself and more on who helps you complete it. In England and Wales, every LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. Their fixed fee applies no matter how you apply. The difference comes in whether you handle the paperwork alone, use an online service or instruct a solicitor.

What happens when you apply directly through the Office of the Public Guardian

The lowest possible upfront cost is when you complete the LPA yourself using the free government forms. The registration fee is £92 per LPA, so setting up both a Property and Financial Affairs LPA and a Health and Welfare LPA costs £184 in total.

If you’re confident with official forms, it’s the right route for you. The signing order must be correct and every detail must be completed correctly. Errors are one of the main reasons applications are rejected, so you need to be confident you can save yourself the hassle of delays of several months and the need to resubmit paperwork if you get it wrong.

What about using an affordable online Power of Attorney service?

The middle ‘Goldilocks’ option is one that balances cost and rigour. An online service like Power of Attorney Online guides you through the legal process with built in checks and clear explanations. For a fixed price, you receive structured support to help you complete each section accurately and avoid common mistakes that cause rejections.

You’ll still need to pay the Office of the Public Guardian registration fee, but will avoid the uncertainty of completing everything alone. This approach can deliver peace of mind at a fraction of the cost of a solicitor.

Why do solicitor drafted LPAs cost more?

Solicitors charges of hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds to prepare LPAs usually reflect the personalised legal advice and time spent managing the process on your behalf. This can be necessary in complex family or financial situations, but isn’t essential for most straightforward applications. Paying more doesn’t make the LPA more legally valid, as all LPAs follow the same statutory format.

Can I get a reduction on the registration fee?

Some applicants qualify for a means tested, reduced Office of the Public Guardian fee. This depends on your income level or receipt of certain benefits. Applying for this reduction can of course significantly lower the overall cost.