What Martin Lewis Wants You to Know About Lasting Power of Attorney

29th May 2025

When Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert himself, speaks — we listen. And when it comes to planning for the future, he’s refreshingly direct about the legal documents we all need to think about sooner than we’d like: Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

Martin doesn’t mince his words: “This is one of the most important documents you can have — even more important than a Will.” That might surprise a lot of people, but he’s absolutely right.

So, what is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

In short, it’s a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you if you’re ever unable to — whether because of illness, an accident, or a condition like dementia. There are two types: one for property and financial affairs, and another for health and welfare.

Martin Lewis often says that LPAs aren’t just for older people. In fact, he’s known for pushing back against the idea that they’re only needed when you hit retirement age. “You can lose capacity at any time,” he warns. “Accidents and illnesses don’t only happen when you’re old.”

It’s this unpredictability of life that makes the LPA so important.

Why Martin is so passionate about LPAs

What really strikes a chord with Martin — and with many families who’ve been through it — is what happens if you don’t have an LPA. If you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself and there’s no LPA in place, your loved ones can’t simply step in and help manage your finances or make care decisions for you. Instead, they’d need to apply through the courts, which is time-consuming, stressful, and often very expensive.

As Martin explains: “Without an LPA, your family can’t access your bank account, manage your pension, or make decisions about your care. They’d have to go to the Court of Protection — a slow, costly process — at the exact moment they’re already under emotional strain.”

He urges people to act before they need it. It’s a safety net. A way of making sure you stay in control, even if you can’t speak for yourself later.

It’s easier than you think

Martin Lewis admits the process can sound intimidating — but reassures people that it’s not as complicated as they fear. In fact, online services now make it quicker and cheaper to sort it without going through a traditional solicitor.

His message is clear: “Just get it done. You’ll never regret putting an LPA in place — but you may really regret not doing it.”

Martin Lewis has built a career on helping people make smart, financially sound decisions. And in his eyes, sorting out an LPA is one of the smartest things you can do for yourself and your loved ones.

So if you’ve been putting it off, consider this your gentle nudge. Your future self — and your family — will thank you.