The Two Types of LPA

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney in England and Wales, and each covers a different area of decision making.

A Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows your chosen attorneys to deal with financial matters. This can include managing bank and building society accounts, paying bills, dealing with investments and pensions, claiming benefits and buying or selling property.

A Health and Welfare LPA covers decisions about your personal care and wellbeing. This can include where you live, your day-to-day care and certain decisions about medical treatment.

The two documents operate differently. A Property and Financial Affairs LPA may be used while you still have mental capacity if the LPA allows it and you give your attorney permission. A Health and Welfare LPA can only be used when you lack capacity to make the particular decision yourself.

Each LPA is a separate legal document and must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

You can choose to make one type or both. Which option is right for you depends on the areas in which you want someone you trust to have authority if help is needed in the future.

It is also important to understand what an attorney can do under each type of LPA and when an LPA can be used.

At MJV Solicitors, we advise clients on which type of LPA, or combination of LPAs, is appropriate for their circumstances and help prepare and register the documents correctly.

For a complete overview, read our guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney. For current fixed-fee information, see our LPA Price Guide.