Quick answer
A UK solicitor typically charges £300–£600+ per Lasting Power of Attorney in 2026 (£600–£1,200 for both Property & Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare). On top, the Office of the Public Guardian charges £92 per LPA to register (£184 for both). A specialist will-writer or estate planner usually charges less (£150–£500 per LPA + £92), and the OPG’s gov.uk online service is free (with a £92 fee per LPA) if you do it yourself. Solicitor pricing is justified by experience handling complex cases — businesses, vulnerable adults, contested capacity, blended families — and the regulatory protections of SRA oversight. For straightforward LPAs, in our experience a specialist non-solicitor estate planner usually delivers equivalent quality at lower cost. This guide breaks down realistic 2026 LPA pricing across DIY, specialist and solicitor options, and explains when paying more is worth it.
Last reviewed: 24 May 2026 by the MP Estate Planning editorial team. Jurisdiction: England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different probate and intestacy rules; the IHT thresholds are UK-wide.
Three rule changes you may need to consider (2026/27)
1. Pensions become subject to IHT from 6 April 2027. Most unused defined-contribution pension pots currently sit outside the estate for IHT — that ends on 6 April 2027 (gov.uk policy paper). HMRC estimates around 10,500 estates will face IHT for the first time as a result.
2. Business and agricultural property reliefs capped at £2.5m per person from 6 April 2026. Above the cap, only 50% relief applies — effective IHT of 20%. AIM shares dropped to 50% relief and do not use the £2.5m allowance (Saffery — APR/BPR reforms).
3. The NRB, RNRB and £2m taper threshold are frozen until 5 April 2031 following the 2024 and 2025 Budgets (gov.uk — NRB and RNRB freeze). With inflation, more estates will be pulled into IHT each year — a process commonly called “fiscal drag.”
How much does a solicitor charge for lasting power of attorney? The cost typically ranges from £200 to £500 plus VAT. A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is crucial for securing your future and protecting your assets. It gives someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you can’t. This article will break down the typical consultant fees for creating a LPA and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Understanding these costs and their importance can help you plan better and ensure your assets are safeguarded.
Understanding Lasting Power of Attorney
For the 2026/27 position, see Signing a Lasting Power of Attorney: The Proper Order for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see Can a Family Member Witness Power of Attorney in the UK? for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
For the 2026/27 position, see our reference guide on this topic for further information from the MP Estate Planning UK editorial team.
Before delving into the costs, it’s crucial to understand what a lasting power of attorney (LPA) is and why it’s important. An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to manage your affairs.
What is General Power of Attorney vs Lasting Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney is like a superhero letter for adults! It lets you pick someone (called an attorney or agent) to help you make important choices if you can’t. Imagine if you are unavailable and couldn’t decide things on the spot; this document makes sure someone you trust can step in and help. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows them to do this after you become ill or medically unable to make decisions – which is where a general power of attorney would end.
The Role of the Appointed Attorney or Agent in your LPA
The person you choose, your attorney or agent, has a big job. They can make decisions about your money, property, or even your medical care. It’s like having a backup you can count on. This person should be someone you trust completely, like a family member or a good friend.
Why is it Important?
Having a lasting power of attorney is super important! It’s like having a safety net. If something unexpected happens, like an accident, your attorney can step in and make sure everything goes smoothly. This way, your estate, bills, and other important things are taken care of without any hassle.
So, now you know why having a lasting power of attorney is a smart move. It’s about planning ahead and making sure your affairs are in safe hands.
Types of Power of Attorney
There are different types of power of attorney, each serving a specific purpose. The two main types are ordinary power of attorney and lasting power of attorney. An ordinary power of attorney is typically used for short-term situations, while an LPA is designed to remain in effect even if you lose mental capacity.
Ordinary Power of Attorney
An ordinary power of attorney allows someone to make decisions on your behalf for a short period. This could be useful if you’re traveling or unable to manage your affairs for a short time. For example, if you need someone to handle your property or financial matters while you’re out of the country, you might use an ordinary power of attorney.
Lasting Power of Attorney
A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is more comprehensive and remains in effect if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself. There are two types of LPA:
- Health and Welfare LPA: This allows someone to make decisions about your healthcare and personal welfare, like where you live or your medical treatment.
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: This lets someone manage your financial matters, like paying bills or selling your property.
Choosing the Right Type
Choosing the right type of power of attorney depends on your specific needs. If you need help temporarily, an ordinary power of attorney may be sufficient. However, if you want to ensure that someone can manage your affairs if you lose mental capacity, a lasting power of attorney is essential.
It’s important to discuss your options with a lawyer or consultant to ensure you make the best decision for your situation.
Factors Affecting Consultant Fees
The cost of having a consultant create a power of attorney can vary depending on several factors. These include the complexity of your situation, the type of power of attorney you require, and the consultant’s experience and location. On average, consultant fees for a straightforward power of attorney can range from £200 to £500 plus VAT.
Complexity of Your Situation
The more complicated your situation, the more time and effort a consultant will need to spend on your case. For example, if you have multiple properties, a large estate, or complicated family dynamics, the consultant may need to spend extra time to ensure everything is legally sound.
Type of Power of Attorney
There are different types of power of attorney documents, such as lasting power of attorney for health and welfare, or for property and financial affairs. Each type has its specifics, and some may require more detailed work. Generally, the more detailed the document, the higher the cost.
Consultant’s Experience and Location
The fees can also depend on the consultant’s level of experience and where they are located. A highly experienced consultant in a big city might charge more than a less experienced one in a smaller town. Experience often brings expertise, which can be crucial for more complex situations.
General Cost Range
For a straightforward power of attorney, you can expect to pay between £200 to £500 plus VAT. However, this is just a general range, and the actual cost can vary based on the factors mentioned above. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes from different consultants to compare prices and services.
Individual Circumstances
Remember, the actual cost for creating a lasting power of attorney can vary significantly based on your individual circumstances. A simple case might be on the lower end of the scale, while a more complex one could be more expensive. Always discuss your specific needs with your consultant to get an accurate estimate.
By understanding these factors, you can better prepare for the costs involved in having a consultant create your power of attorney.
Additional Costs to Consider
When setting up a lasting power of attorney, it’s important to be aware of some additional costs beyond just the fees. These extra expenses can add up, so it’s good to know what to expect.
Registration Fees
One of the main additional costs you might face is the registration fee. In England and Wales, you need to register your LPA (Lasting Power of Attorney), and this costs £92 for each one. So, if you’re setting up both a property and financial affairs LPA and a health and welfare LPA, you would need to pay £184 in total.
Certified Copies
Another cost to consider is if you need certified copies of the lasting power of attorney document. Sometimes, organizations like banks or healthcare providers will ask for these. The price for certified copies can vary, but your consultant can provide them for an additional charge.
So, aside from the consultant’s fee, make sure to budget for these extra costs when planning to set up a power of attorney.
The Value of Professional Advice
When you need to create a power of attorney document, you might think about using online templates. These templates can be a quick and easy way to get started. However, they might not cover all the details you need for your specific situation.
Creating a Power of Attorney Using Online Templates
Using online templates is a popular option because it can save you time and money. You fill in the blanks, and you have a basic document ready to go. But what happens if the template doesn’t fit your needs exactly? This is where problems can start. A one-size-fits-all document might not address your unique circumstances.
Benefits of Seeking Professional Advice from a Consultant
Getting help from a consultant can make a big difference. A consultant is a specialist who knows a lot about legal documents and can help you make sure everything is correct. When you work with a consultant, they will:
- Understand your situation: They will listen to what you need and make sure the document is perfect for you.
- Avoid mistakes: They know the common pitfalls and can help you avoid them.
- Provide peace of mind: Knowing that an expert has reviewed your document can make you feel more confident.
Guidance from a Consultant
A consultant can guide you through the entire process. They can:
- Answer your questions: If you have any doubts or concerns, they are there to help.
- Explain legal terms: Legal language can be confusing, but a consultant can break it down into simple terms.
- Help avoid potential issues: They can spot problems before they happen and suggest ways to fix them.
For example, if you need a power of attorney for a family member who owns a lot of real estate, a consultant can ensure the document covers everything related to managing those properties. This way, you won’t run into trouble later.
In conclusion, while online templates are a quick option, seeking professional advice from a consultant ensures that your lasting power of attorney document is thorough and tailored to your needs. This can save you from headaches and give you peace of mind.
Making an Informed Decision
Investing in a well-written lasting power of attorney is a small price to pay for the peace of mind and protection it provides. By understanding the typical fees and the factors that influence them, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your future and assets are secure. If you’re ready to protect your wealth and assets, book a free consultation call with MP Estate Planning today. Our consultants are here to guide you through the process and provide personalized estate planning strategies. Don’t wait—secure your financial future now.
OPG Registration Fees, Reductions and What a Solicitor’s Fee Typically Covers
When budgeting for a Lasting Power of Attorney, many people focus solely on the professional fee quoted by a solicitor or consultant. However, there are mandatory government charges that apply regardless of who helps you complete the documents, and understanding these is essential to calculating the true total cost.
The OPG Registration Fee
As of 2024, the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) charges £82 per LPA to register the document with the court. Because most people create two LPAs — one for property and financial affairs and one for health and welfare — the combined registration cost is typically £164. This fee is payable directly to the OPG and is separate from any professional fees you may incur. You can confirm the current fee on the GOV.UK LPA registration page.
Fee Remission and Exemptions
If you have a gross annual income of under £12,000, you may qualify for a 50% reduction on the OPG registration fee, bringing the cost per LPA down to approximately £41. In some circumstances — for example, if you receive certain means-tested benefits — you may be entitled to a full exemption. An application for remission or exemption is made using form LPA120, available from the OPG. In our experience, this reduction is frequently overlooked, so it is worth checking your eligibility before submitting your registration.
What Is Typically Included in a Solicitor’s Fee
Solicitor fees for an LPA in England and Wales generally range from £300 to £500 per LPA, or roughly £500 to £900 for both documents together, though this varies depending on complexity and location. In most cases, that fee will cover an initial consultation, drafting the LPA, advising on the choice of attorneys and replacement attorneys, witnessing signatures, and in many instances managing the registration process on your behalf. It is worth clarifying with any professional what is and is not included before instructing them, as some quote a drafting-only fee with registration handled separately. As an estate planning consultancy rather than a solicitor firm, our team is able to guide you through the process candidly — including whether a fully guided self-completion route may be suitable for your circumstances — without the conflict of interest that arises when a firm charges per document regardless of complexity.
Common Questions About Power of Attorney
What is the easiest way to do a power of attorney?
For straightforward situations — where you have capacity, a clear choice of attorneys, and no complications such as overseas assets or business interests — the easiest route is generally to use the GOV.UK online LPA tool, which guides you through the form step by step before submission. However, easy and suitable are not always the same thing. In our experience, errors in completion or poorly worded instructions to attorneys can create significant difficulties later. For anyone with a blended family, a business interest, or complex financial arrangements, guided support from an estate planning consultancy or a solicitor is typically the more prudent choice, even if it carries an additional cost.
What are the 4 types of power of attorney?
In England and Wales, the main types are: Ordinary Power of Attorney, which is used for a specific transaction or period and lapses if the donor loses mental capacity; Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs; Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare; and Enduring Power of Attorney, which was replaced by LPAs in October 2007 but remains valid if it was correctly executed before that date. EPAs registered before that cut-off can still be used, though they only cover financial matters. Scotland and Northern Ireland operate under separate legislation and use different instruments.
Is a UK power of attorney valid in the USA?
Generally, a UK LPA is not automatically recognised in the United States. Each US state has its own laws governing powers of attorney, and foreign documents typically need to be apostilled and may need to be accompanied by a certified translation or a locally drafted equivalent document. If you have assets or interests in the USA, it is advisable to seek specialist advice from a lawyer qualified in the relevant US state, in addition to putting a UK LPA in place. The two documents can often work in parallel.
What is the UK equivalent of power of attorney?
This question is most commonly asked by people who are familiar with the term from another jurisdiction. In England and Wales, the Lasting Power of Attorney is the primary instrument for delegating decision-making authority during lifetime incapacity. It is created under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used. Scotland uses a Continuing Power of Attorney and Welfare Power of Attorney under the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000, while Northern Ireland uses Enduring Powers of Attorney under its own legislation. This article focuses specifically on the position in England and Wales.