Lasting power of attorney (LPA) lets you appoint someone to manage your affairs in the future if you are no longer able to. This could happen if, for example, you were ill, had an accident or no longer had the mental capacity to look after your own affairs.
Types of LPA
There are two types of LPA. You can choose to have one or both of these.
- Property and financial affairs – lets you choose someone to make decisions about your money and property.
- Health and welfare – lets you choose someone to make decisions about your health and welfare.
As it is such an important decision, you should consider getting independent legal advice from a solicitor (who can also give you the forms) or Citizens Advice.
Arranging LPA in advance
You can arrange an LPA before you actually need it. For example, you may have been diagnosed as having a mental illness or a degenerative brain disease that may lead to mental incapacity such as Alzheimer's.
An LPA can give you the opportunity to have a say about your future. It will also make it easier for your LPA to act on your behalf if necessary, for example if they need to pay bills for you or help you find a care home.
If you care for someone who hasn't arranged an LPA
If someone you care for is, or is becoming, mentally incapable and you want to manage their financial affairs, you will need to apply to the Court of Protection.
Enduring power of attorney
Before 1 October 2007, power of attorney was arranged using an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA).
If you asked a person to be your EPA before 1 October 2007 they can still use it and apply to have it registered.
Further information
Useful advice on how to choose and register a Lasting Power of Attorney:
Help and enquiries
East Sussex County Council