What Power of Attorney Means in the UK: A Full Guide
If you’ve ever wondered what Power of Attorney means, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most important legal tools in UK estate planning—but also one of the most misunderstood. In simple terms, a Power of Attorney (POA) lets someone you trust make legal decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
Whether you’re planning ahead, helping a loved one, or concerned about future care, understanding how Power of Attorney works could make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explain the legal definition, explore the different types of POA in the UK, and show you how to set one up correctly.
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What Does Power of Attorney Mean?
Power of Attorney allows someone else to make decisions for you—about your finances, property, healthcare, or day-to-day living—if you become unable to decide for yourself.
The person who grants the power is the donor. The person chosen to act is the attorney. They don’t need to be a solicitor—just someone you trust deeply.
For official guidance and legal forms, visit the UK Government’s Power of Attorney page.
Why Is Power of Attorney Important?
If you lose mental capacity without a valid POA, your family will need to apply to the Court of Protection. This process is costly, slow, and emotionally taxing.
A POA ensures that someone you trust can step in immediately, whether due to illness, dementia, injury, or ageing. It puts you in control—by choosing who acts for you, and under what terms.
Types of Power of Attorney in the UK
There are three main types of POA in the UK. Each serves a specific purpose:
1. Ordinary Power of Attorney
This temporary option is used while you still have mental capacity—ideal for when you’re abroad, recovering from surgery, or need short-term help managing finances.
2. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
This is the most common type in use today. It stays valid if you lose capacity. There are two kinds:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Manages bank accounts, bills, property, and investments.
- Health and Welfare LPA: Authorises decisions about care, housing, and medical treatment—but only if you lose capacity.
3. Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)
This was replaced in 2007 by LPAs. If you created one before then, it’s still valid for financial decisions—but it must be registered once capacity is lost.
What Can an Attorney Do?
With a Property & Financial LPA:
- Access and manage your bank accounts
- Pay bills, rent, or mortgage
- Oversee pensions, taxes, and investments
- Buy, sell, or rent out your property
With a Health & Welfare LPA:
- Make decisions about daily care and routines
- Choose care homes
- Consent to or refuse medical treatment, including life-sustaining care
When Does a POA Take Effect?
- Ordinary POA: Works immediately, but only while you still have capacity.
- Property & Financial LPA: Can take effect once registered, with your consent.
- Health & Welfare LPA: Activates only if you lose capacity.
What Power of Attorney Does Not Do
- It doesn’t allow changes to your will.
- It doesn’t override your decisions while you’re capable.
- It ends upon death—then, your executor takes over.
How to Set Up a Power of Attorney
- Choose your attorney(s)—someone reliable and responsible.
- Select your POA type—Ordinary, Property & Financial LPA, or Health & Welfare LPA.
- Complete the forms online via GOV.UK or with professional help.
- Get the documents signed and witnessed in the correct order.
- Register the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (£82 per document).
Book a free consultation to get everything done right.
Who Should You Appoint?
Choose someone who:
- Understands your wishes and values
- Is financially capable and honest
- Is available to take on the role
You can name multiple attorneys to act:
- Jointly (all must agree)
- Jointly and Severally (they can act independently)
How Much Does It Cost?
Registering each LPA costs £82. Most people choose both types—totaling £164. Fee reductions are available for low-income applicants.
Need help? See our transparent pricing.
FAQs About Power of Attorney
Can I cancel a POA?
Yes—any time, as long as you have capacity.
Does it continue after death?
No. It ends immediately. Executors take over from that point.
Can I appoint more than one person?
Yes. You can name multiple attorneys and define how they make decisions.
Will I lose control of my life?
No. Your attorney only acts when you can’t—unless you’ve authorised early use for finances.
Is POA the same as being an executor?
No. Attorneys act while you’re alive. Executors act after death.
Conclusion: Why It Matters
Setting up Power of Attorney means putting your future in trusted hands. It ensures that someone who knows you—and respects your wishes—can step in when it matters most.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Secure your future now.
Book your free consultation or see our fixed-fee packages.
Visit the UK Government Power of Attorney portal for official resources.