Why Doing an LPA for Free Through the Government Website Could Cost You More Than You Think

14th July 2025

Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney is one of the most important legal steps you can take to protect your future and your family’s peace of mind. While the Office of the Public Guardian offers a free-to-use website to complete your LPA application, doing it alone isn’t always the cost-saving move it seems. In fact, many people who go down the DIY route end up facing bigger issues, both financial and emotional, down the line.

Here’s why that “free” LPA could cost you more than you think.

1. Mistakes Can Invalidate Your LPA

The government site provides access to LPA forms, but not personalised guidance. Many people accidentally make errors, from missing witness signatures to unclear instructions, which can lead to the Office of the Public Guardian rejecting the application. If that happens, you’ll not only have to redo the paperwork, but you may also have to pay the registration fee again, currently £82 per LPA.

2. Lack of Legal Clarity Causes Future Confusion

An LPA is a legal document, and the way it’s worded matters. If your instructions are vague or your preferences unclear, your attorneys (those you appoint to act on your behalf) may not have the authority or confidence to act in your best interest. In worst-case scenarios, disagreements between family members or legal challenges can arise, costing far more than professional support would have.

3. No Safeguards or Checks

When you complete an LPA online without guidance, you may miss out on key safeguarding steps, like correctly identifying a trustworthy certificate provider (someone who confirms you’re making the LPA of your own free will). Choosing the wrong person or failing to understand their role can compromise the validity of your LPA.

4. Cost of Delay Can Be Huge

Many people who try to complete their LPA without help give up midway due to confusion or overwhelm. That delay could have serious consequences if something unexpected happens and your LPA hasn’t been registered. Without a valid LPA, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection, an expensive and time-consuming process, just to make decisions for you.

5. Free Isn’t Always Flexible

The government service doesn’t offer support after submission like Power of Attorney Online does. If you need to make changes, get help with signing or understand what comes next, you’re largely on your own. Many paid services offer human support, convenience features, and accountability, all of which can actually save you time, money and stress.

Yes, you can create an LPA for free online, but that doesn’t mean it won’t cost you. A small upfront investment in a supported or guided service can help you avoid mistakes, protect your loved ones and give you peace of mind knowing it’s been done right.