How Long Does Lasting Power of Attorney Last?
If you’re planning for the future, understanding how long a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) remains valid is key. Whether you’re helping a loved one manage their affairs or putting your own safeguards in place, it’s natural to ask: How long does lasting power of attorney last in the UK?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of LPA, whether it’s been registered properly, and the circumstances of the donor and attorney. In this article, we’ll explain the duration of an LPA, when it takes effect, when it can end, and how you can keep it legally protected over time.
If you’re unsure what type of LPA you need or how long yours will remain valid, book a free consultation with our estate planning experts. You can also explore our clear pricing to see how affordable professional guidance can be.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you (the “donor”) to appoint one or more trusted people (your “attorneys”) to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so in the future.
There are two main types of LPA in the UK:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: For managing money, paying bills, handling property and investments
- Health and Welfare LPA: For decisions about healthcare, medical treatment, daily routine, and living arrangements
Each type serves a different purpose, but both are designed to offer protection throughout your lifetime—especially if you lose mental capacity.
How Long Does a Lasting Power of Attorney Last?
A Lasting Power of Attorney remains valid indefinitely—unless it is revoked or cancelled. In simple terms, once an LPA is registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), it can remain in place until:
- The donor passes away
- The donor chooses to cancel it (while they still have mental capacity)
- The attorney is removed or becomes incapable
- A court revokes the LPA due to misuse or concerns
As long as none of these circumstances occur, your LPA will continue to function and provide legal authority to your appointed attorney(s).
When Does an LPA Take Effect?
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Can be used as soon as it’s registered—with the donor’s permission, even if they still have capacity
- Health and Welfare LPA: Only takes effect after the donor loses mental capacity
This means the LPA doesn’t just “kick in” the moment it’s created. It must be properly registered with the OPG before attorneys can use it.
Does a Lasting Power of Attorney Expire?
No, a valid and registered LPA does not expire or have a fixed end date. Unlike some legal agreements that are only valid for a certain number of years, an LPA is designed to last as long as the donor is alive—unless it’s legally revoked.
However, the LPA becomes void when the donor dies. After death, the will (if one exists) takes precedence, and the LPA ceases to have legal effect.
When Can a Lasting Power of Attorney End Early?
There are a few scenarios where an LPA can end before the donor’s death:
- The donor revokes it: Must be done in writing while the donor still has capacity
- The attorney resigns: The LPA may need to be updated or new attorneys appointed
- Attorney becomes bankrupt: For property and financial LPAs, this may invalidate the attorney’s role
- Attorney loses mental capacity: They can no longer act on your behalf
- The court intervenes: The Court of Protection can cancel an LPA if there’s evidence of abuse or mismanagement
In any of these cases, you may need to register a new LPA or update your current one to ensure legal coverage remains in place.
Can a Lasting Power of Attorney Be Renewed?
No renewal is needed. Once your LPA is registered and valid, it will remain in effect permanently unless it’s revoked or replaced.
However, it’s a good idea to review your LPA every few years or after major life events, such as:
- Divorce or separation
- Death of an attorney
- Changing your wishes or preferences
- Changes to your health or care needs
Updating your LPA can help avoid future confusion and ensure it always reflects your current intentions.
How Long Does It Take to Register a Lasting Power of Attorney?
On average, it takes about 8–10 weeks for the Office of the Public Guardian to process and register an LPA.
This includes a 4-week statutory waiting period to allow objections. Because of this timeframe, it’s best to register your LPA as early as possible—don’t wait until an emergency.
Do You Need a Solicitor to Set Up an LPA?
While it’s possible to complete the LPA forms on your own, many people choose to work with a solicitor or professional service to ensure everything is done correctly. A small mistake can delay or invalidate the application.
At MP Estate Planning, we offer full support to ensure your documents are legally valid, registered promptly, and tailored to your wishes. See our transparent pricing for peace of mind with no hidden costs.
FAQs: How Long Does LPA Last?
Does an LPA last after the donor dies?
No. A Lasting Power of Attorney ends immediately upon the donor’s death. At that point, the executor of the will takes over.
Can I cancel my LPA at any time?
Yes, as long as you have mental capacity. You’ll need to inform the OPG in writing and provide the necessary documentation to revoke the LPA.
How long does a Health and Welfare LPA last?
Indefinitely—until the donor dies or it’s legally revoked. It only becomes usable once the donor loses capacity.
Can LPAs become outdated?
Legally, no. But practically, yes—especially if your circumstances or relationships change. That’s why regular reviews are important.
Is a registered LPA valid for life?
Yes. Once registered, an LPA remains in force throughout the donor’s lifetime unless it’s cancelled or replaced.
Conclusion
A Lasting Power of Attorney lasts for the lifetime of the donor—offering continuous protection for health, welfare, or finances unless it is revoked, replaced, or the donor passes away. It does not expire and does not need to be renewed.
Having an LPA in place gives you peace of mind that someone you trust will make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to. But it’s important to set it up correctly, keep it up to date, and understand when it takes effect and how long it lasts.
Need help creating or reviewing your LPA? Book a free consultation with our experts today. We’ll help you ensure your legal protection is solid and future-proofed. You can also view our simple pricing plans to get started with complete confidence.