Where to Send Lasting Power of Attorney Forms in the UK
Once you’ve completed your Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) forms, the next step is critical: knowing where to send them for official registration. Sending them to the wrong place—or missing key documents—can lead to delays, rejections, or legal complications.
This guide explains exactly where to send your LPA forms, what to include in the envelope, how to pay the fee, and how to ensure smooth processing by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).
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What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows someone you trust (your attorney) to make decisions on your behalf. There are two types in England and Wales:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA – for managing money, bills, savings, property, and investments.
- Health and Welfare LPA – for decisions about care, living arrangements, and medical treatment.
LPAs must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they are legally valid and usable.
Where to Send Your LPA Forms
All LPA forms—whether for property, health, or both—must be sent by post to the Office of the Public Guardian:
Office of the Public Guardian
PO Box 16185
Birmingham
B2 2WH
This is the official OPG address for registrations in England and Wales.
What to Include in the Envelope
Make sure your envelope contains everything required for successful registration:
- Your completed LPA form (or both if registering two types)
- All necessary signatures in the correct order: donor → certificate provider → attorney(s)
- A cheque or payment confirmation for the registration fee
- Form LPA120 if you’re applying for a fee reduction or exemption
Tip: Missing signatures, incorrect sequencing, or forgetting payment details are the most common reasons for rejection.
How Much Does It Cost?
The current registration fee (2024) is:
- £82 per LPA – so £164 if you’re registering both types
If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you may be eligible for a discount or full exemption. Complete form LPA120 and include it with your application to apply.
Need help understanding the criteria? Book a free call with us.
How to Pay the LPA Fee
You can pay using any of the following methods:
- Cheque – payable to “Office of the Public Guardian”
- Postal Order
- Card Payment – use the GOV.UK card payment form
Important: Always include your payment in the same envelope as your LPA forms. Do not send cash.
How Long Does Registration Take?
Registration usually takes around 8 to 10 weeks, provided your application is correct and complete. Delays may occur if:
- Forms are missing signatures
- You used correction fluid or made unauthorised alterations
- The signing order was incorrect
Professional review helps avoid these errors. See our affordable pricing for a worry-free submission.
Can You Submit LPA Forms Online?
No. Even if you create your LPA online using GOV.UK tools, the final forms must be:
- Printed
- Signed and witnessed
- Sent physically to the OPG
Digital submission is not currently accepted in the UK. Physical posting remains the legal requirement.
How to Track Your LPA Application
To check the progress of your application, contact the OPG directly:
- Call: 0300 456 0300
- Email: customerservices@publicguardian.gov.uk
Have your name, date of birth, and LPA details ready when you call or email.
Tips to Avoid Mistakes When Sending LPA Forms
- Use tracked or recorded delivery
- Photocopy the entire application before posting
- Check that all signatures and dates are correct
- Review the latest GOV.UK guidance before posting
Need help reviewing everything? We’ll check it all for you.
After Registration: What Happens Next?
Once your LPA is approved, you’ll receive an official registered copy from the OPG. This document proves your attorney’s authority and is used with banks, hospitals, or local councils.
Keep your registered LPA:
- In a safe, accessible place
- With extra copies for your attorneys
- Available to send to organisations when needed
You may also request certified copies if required by certain institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hand-deliver my LPA forms?
No. The Office of the Public Guardian only accepts postal submissions.
What if I send forms to the wrong address?
Your forms may be returned or delayed. Always use the official OPG PO Box listed above.
Can I send multiple LPAs in one envelope?
Yes. You can send multiple LPAs (for both types or for more than one person) together—just ensure forms and fees are clearly organised.
What if my LPA is rejected?
The OPG will contact you with instructions to correct the issue. You can usually amend and resubmit without paying the full fee again.
Conclusion
Where to send Lasting Power of Attorney forms in the UK is simple—post them to the Office of the Public Guardian in Birmingham, including all necessary forms, signatures, and payment.
To avoid costly delays, take time to double-check every detail—or let us do it for you. Book your free consultation or visit our transparent pricing page for full-service support.