Nov 2022
We’ve always been champions of the Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) document and we all know it’s best to plan ahead. But, it looks as though we’re still not back to where we were pre-Covid for getting them registered.
What’s stopping you?
According to the latest Government data, there were 190,000 LPAs registered between April and June 2022. While we are happy with that number – it’s 20% higher than it was in the same quarter of 2021 – there were more than 220,000 LPAs registered between April and June 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic.
An LPA is a document that nominates an individual, called an attorney. This person is chosen by you and must be registered with the correct paperwork so that they can act on your behalf should you be unable to do so yourself.
An attorney can access your bank accounts, pay bills and manage any online payments on your behalf. They can also carry out instructions for any specific medical treatment you wish to receive.
Wills and LPAs
LPAs are different to wills, because they become active while you are still alive. A will only takes effect once you pass away.
Interestingly, during the pandemic there was a spike in will-related enquiries as people no doubt considered getting their affairs in order should they become seriously ill from Covid-19. However, while there was an increase demand for will writing, just 14% of people in the UK had an active LPA in place.
Can we help?
According to Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) 75% of people aged over 40 do not have an LPA in place. Plus, a 2020 Freedom of Information request from Which? showed more than 22,000 LPAs are rejected every year by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).
It’s really important that you get the right help and advice from a registered solicitor if you want to draft your will or LPA as it could help prevent lengthy delays.
If you would like more information contact Downs Solicitors to see how we can help.
