Lasting Power of Attorney Checklist
Avoid costly mistakes and make sure your Lasting Power of Attorney is set up correctly with this simple, step-by-step checklist.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf in a situation where you lose mental capacity. Get instant access to this free checklist which walks you through exactly what you need to consider, before it’s too late.
What The Lasting Power of Attorney Checklist Helps You Do
- Understand the 2 types of LPA (health & financial)
- Choose the right attorneys with confidence
- Avoid common mistakes that can delay or invalidate your application
- Make sure your LPA is properly completed and ready for registration
- Feel confident you have protected your future and your family
Why Setting Up a Lasting Power of Attorney Matters
Without a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, your loved ones may not be able to manage your finances or make important decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. This can create unnecessary stress, delays, and even legal complications at a time when your family should be focused on supporting you.
A Lasting Power of Attorney gives you control. It allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions about your finances, property, health, and care if you’re unable to do so yourself. You can set clear instructions, outline your preferences, and ensure the right person is acting in your best interests. Putting a Lasting Power of Attorney in place early means your wishes are known, respected, and legally protected. It gives both you and your family peace of mind, knowing that if something unexpected happens, everything is already taken care of.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This might be due to illness, an accident, or a loss of mental capacity. There are two types of LPA:
- Property and Financial Affairs – covers things like managing your bank account, paying bills, and dealing with property
- Health and Welfare – covers decisions about your care, treatment, and daily routine
You (the donor) appoint one or more people (attorneys) to act for you. You can also include instructions or preferences to guide them.
An LPA must be registered before it can be used. Once it is in place, it allows your chosen person to step in and make decisions in your best interests when needed.
Do I Need a Lasting Power of Attorney?
If you don’t have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, the people close to you may not be able to step in and help if something happens. This can lead to delays, added stress, and in some cases, a more complicated legal process to gain authority. You may want to consider an LPA if you want to:
- Make sure someone you trust can manage your finances if needed
- Ensure decisions about your care reflect your wishes
- Avoid delays or complications for your family
- Plan ahead while you’re still able to make clear decisions
An LPA isn’t just something to think about later in life. Unexpected situations can happen at any time. Putting one in place early means things are clear, decisions are easier, and the right person is able to act when needed.
Find out what your family needs you to put in place.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation. We will talk about your family, and what you would like to put in place. We will walk you through your options in plain English. No paperwork. No pressure.
Download the Estate Planning Guide.
Take your time. The guide walks you through your options, and what the process actually looks like, at your own pace and on your own terms.