LPAs #2 - Options for completing your LPAs... use a Professional or DIY?

LPAs - What are the options.

When it comes to setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), you have two main options:
• You can do it yourself, or
• You can ask a professional, such as a solicitor to do it for you.

Doing it yourself

The forms for making an LPA are available online. They are designed to be straightforward so that anyone can fill them in without legal help.

Advantages:

• Cheaper — you only pay the registration fee to the Office of the Public Guardian (unless you qualify for a discount or exemption).
• Flexible — you can take your time, read the guidance notes, and complete it at your own pace.

Disadvantages:

• Easy to make mistakes — while the forms are simple, they must be completed very carefully.
• Small mistakes can cause big problems — an error might mean the LPA is rejected, delayed, or even invalid.
• You’ll need a ‘certificate provider’ — someone who confirms that you understand what you are doing. If you don’t use a professional, you must find someone else (a friend, professional, or doctor) who qualifies.

Using a professional *

You can ask a solicitor or other legal professional to prepare the LPA for you.

Advantages:

• Forms done properly — professionals know the common mistakes and will make sure the paperwork is correct.
• Advice on your options — a professional can help you think about things you might not have considered, like how to appoint your attorneys (jointly, jointly and severally, replacements, preferences, instructions, etc.).
• Built-in certificate provider — your solicitor can act as the certificate provider, which makes the process smoother.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive — solicitors usually charge quite a lot for helping with an LPA, even though it is largely a form-filling exercise.
• It may feel costly for a simple task — but the investment could be well worth it for peace of mind and avoiding problems later on.

In summary:

If you feel confident, have simple needs, and are careful, you can save money by completing the LPA yourself.

If you want the reassurance that everything will be done correctly and that you’ve fully thought through your choices, using a professional — despite the higher cost — could save you stress and avoid costly mistakes later.

* If wanting to use a professional make sure you shop around and get a number of quotes before you make your decision.  

What should I do next?

If you haven't already please read my first blog on LPAs: www.deborahwisewills.co.uk/blog/why-do-i-need-a-lasting-power-of-attorney

If you would like further information please check out 'LPAs - Everything you need to know'.  This offers comprehensive guidance, building on the information in my LPA blogs #1 and #2.   

You will also get access to the following documents:

• LPA Data Entry Questionnaire
• Guide to the 'Use an LPA GOV UK' online service
• LPA Health - Letter of Wishes SAMPLE & Word template
• LPA Finance - Letter of Wishes SAMPLE & Word template

'LPAs - Everything you need to know' - this comprehensive document covers:

1. What they are and why they are as important as your Will.

2. A comparison of the two types – Finance and Health.

3. Who to appoint.

4. How to appoint your Attorneys – the two tier appointment structure and different appointment options on each tier.

5. What to do about preferences and instructions.

6. Options for completing your LPAs - use a professional or DIY.

With key hints & tips along the way. If you are serious about implementing an LPA please do read it through.