What’s the Difference Between a Lasting Power of Attorney & a Will?
14th April 2025
If you’ve ever thought about planning for the future, you’ve probably heard of both a Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). But what exactly is the difference between the two? While they may sound similar, they actually serve very different purposes—and having both in place is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Let’s break it down in a simple, friendly way.
Wills: Planning for What Happens After You’re Gone
A Will is all about what happens after you pass away. It allows you to set out your wishes regarding:
- Who inherits your money, property, and belongings
- Who will look after your children if they are under 18
- Any funeral arrangements you’d like
- Who is responsible for making sure your wishes are carried out (your Executor)
Without a Will, the law decides who gets what, which might not align with what you’d want. That’s why making a Will is so important—it gives you control over your legacy and ensures your loved ones are taken care of according to your wishes.
Lasting Power of Attorney: Planning for While You’re Still Here
Unlike a Will, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is about protecting you while you’re still alive. It gives someone you trust (your Attorney) the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. There are two types of LPA:
- Health & Welfare LPA – Covers decisions about medical treatment, care, and even where you live if you lose mental capacity.
- Property & Financial Affairs LPA – Allows your chosen Attorney to handle your finances, pay bills, and manage property if you are unable to.
Without an LPA, your loved ones would have to apply through the courts to gain permission to act on your behalf—a process that is costly, time-consuming, and stressful.
Why You Need Both
Since they serve completely different purposes, having both a Will and an LPA in place ensures you’re fully protected. Your Will safeguards your wishes after death, while an LPA ensures your affairs are handled properly if you become unable to make decisions while still alive.
The Common Misconception
Many people assume that if they have a Will, they don’t need an LPA—or that their next of kin can automatically step in if something happens. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Without an LPA, even your closest family members would have no legal authority to make important decisions for you.
The Bottom Line
A Will and an LPA go hand in hand. While one looks after your affairs after you’re gone, the other ensures you’re taken care of while you’re still here. Setting up both is a simple yet powerful way to give yourself and your loved ones peace of mind.
If you’re looking for an easy way to arrange your LPA online, services like PowerofAttorneyOnline.co.uk make the process straightforward, affordable, and stress-free. Don’t wait until it’s too late—plan ahead and protect what matters most.
