What Happens If You Make Mistakes in Your Lasting Power of Attorney Application?

06th March 2025

Filling out a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) application online might seem like a straightforward task, but even small mistakes can cause major delays. Since your LPA needs to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) before it can be used, errors in your application could mean weeks or even months of waiting. In the worst-case scenario, your application could be rejected entirely, forcing you to start over from scratch. So, what happens if things don’t go smoothly? Let’s take a look.

Your Application Could Be Rejected

The OPG is very particular about how LPAs are completed. Simple mistakes—such as missing signatures, incorrect dates, or errors in wording—can result in your application being rejected. If this happens, you’ll have to go through the entire process again, which means more time, effort, and potentially more fees.

Delays Could Leave You Without Protection When You Need It Most

One of the key reasons to set up an LPA is to ensure someone you trust can make decisions for you if you become unable to do so. But if there are mistakes in your application, the registration process could be significantly delayed, leaving you unprotected in the meantime.

Imagine you suddenly lose mental capacity due to illness or an accident, and your LPA is still being processed due to errors. Your chosen attorneys won’t be able to step in until the document is officially registered, meaning financial or healthcare decisions could be left in limbo.

Your Loved Ones Might Face Legal Headaches

If your LPA is delayed or rejected, your loved ones may have no legal authority to manage your affairs. This could mean they are unable to access your bank accounts, pay bills, or make important healthcare decisions on your behalf. Instead, they may have to apply for a deputyship through the Court of Protection—a long and expensive process that could have been avoided with a correctly registered LPA.

Common Mistakes That Cause Delays

Some of the most common errors that can slow down your LPA registration include:

• Incorrect signatures – The document must be signed in the correct order, and missing a signature can result in rejection.
• Ambiguous instructions – If your wording is unclear or contradicts itself, the OPG may refuse to accept your application.
• Using the wrong form – There are different types of LPAs (Property & Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare), so using the incorrect form can cause delays.
• Failing to notify people – If you’ve named people to be notified about your LPA but fail to inform them properly, it could cause issues.

How to Avoid Delays and Get It Right the First Time

The best way to avoid mistakes is to use an online LPA service that provides clear guidance and error-checking before you submit your application. Many platforms have step-by-step instructions to ensure you complete everything correctly, reducing the risk of delays.

Taking the time to double-check your application and making sure everything is in order can save you weeks—or even months—of waiting.

Mistakes in your LPA application can lead to frustrating delays, unnecessary stress, and even legal complications. The best way to ensure a smooth process is to be thorough, follow the guidelines carefully, and take advantage of our Help & Advice section that help prevent errors. Getting it right the first time means your LPA will be ready when you need it most, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind.