How to Register a Lasting Power of Attorney UK

Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) document is only half the job — it cannot be used until it is registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Registration is not complicated, but it takes time and following the correct process is essential. Here is a step-by-step guide to registering an LPA in 2026.

Step 1 — Complete the LPA Forms

The LPA document must be completed in the correct order. The forms can be completed online via the OPG's "Use a Lasting Power of Attorney" service or using paper forms LP1F (Property and Financial Affairs) or LP1H (Health and Welfare). The document must be signed by the donor, certificate provider, and all attorneys in the correct sequence.

Step 2 — Certificate Provider Certification

Before the LPA is registered, a certificate provider must sign to confirm that the donor understands the LPA and is not being pressured into making it. The certificate provider must be either a professional (solicitor, GP, social worker) or someone who has known the donor personally for at least 2 years. They cannot be a family member or the attorney.

Step 3 — Notify People (Optional)

The donor can name up to 5 people to be notified when the LPA application is made. These "people to be told" have 3 weeks to raise any concerns with the OPG. This step is optional but provides an additional safeguard against abuse.

Step 4 — Apply to Register

Send the completed LPA document to the OPG with the registration fee. As of 2026 the fee is £82 per LPA. You can apply for a fee reduction or exemption if the donor receives Universal Credit, Income Support, or other means-tested benefits. Applications can be made online or by post.

Address for postal applications: Office of the Public Guardian, PO Box 16185, Birmingham, B2 2WH.

Step 5 — Wait for Registration

The OPG currently takes 8–20 weeks to register an LPA from receipt of the application. They will contact the donor and any "people to be told" during this period. If there are no objections or errors, the OPG will stamp the registered LPA and return it.

Step 6 — Keep the Registered LPA Safely

Once registered, keep the original stamped LPA document safely. Banks, medical providers, and other organisations will want to see the original or a certified copy before accepting the attorney's authority. Consider making certified copies — a solicitor can certify copies for a small fee.

Can the LPA Be Used While the Donor Still Has Capacity?

A registered Property and Financial Affairs LPA can be used at any time after registration, including while the donor still has full capacity — unless the document restricts this. A registered Health and Welfare LPA can only be used once the donor has lost capacity to make the relevant decisions.