Lasting Power of Attorney: Why Planning Ahead Matters More Than You Think

*This is a collaborative post on Lasting Power of Attorneys, but all thoughts and words are my own

When we think about planning for the future, pensions, wills and insurance often come to mind. But there’s one document that’s just as important — and far less discussed — Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

A Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to choose who you trust to make decisions about your finances, property, health and welfare if you’re ever unable to do so yourself. Without one, even your closest family members may not legally be able to help when you need them most.

Despite its importance, uptake remains surprisingly low. Only around 17% of UK adults over 40 have an LPA in place, even though over 1.3 million LPAs were registered in England and Wales in 2024/25 alone. That gap highlights just how many families are exposed to unnecessary stress, cost and delay if the unexpected happens.

For most of us millennials (and older generations) we’re starting to see our parents get older which is worrying to think about. And having an LPA is peace of mind for their future as they’re protected. But it isn’t just about ‘later life’. If you start a family, buy a home, or build financial responsibilities wouldn’t you want to know the people you love most can make decisions for you around these areas? The hope will be that you never need it, but I know I’d rather have it and not need it than not have it at all.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people (your ‘attorneys’) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

There are two types of LPA:

• Property and Financial Affairs – covering things like bank accounts, bills, pensions and property.

• Health and Welfare – covering medical treatment, care decisions and where you live.

You can choose to set up one or both, but many people opt for both to ensure full protection.

Why it’s so important to have an LPA in place

Many people assume LPAs are only needed “later in life”, but accidents, illness and unexpected health issues can happen at any age. And that’s why during this process I’ve set my own one up which is especially important now I have a daughter. The last thing I’d want if something happened to me is Luke stressing because he can’t make decisions.

Without an LPA:

• Loved ones may have to apply to the Court of Protection to manage your affairs.
• This can take months (or longer) and it’s expensive, stressful and emotionally draining.
• Decisions may be made by someone you wouldn’t have chosen.

In contrast, having an LPA in place:

• Keeps you in control of who makes decisions for you.
• Reduces stress for family members during already difficult times.
• Avoids unnecessary legal delays and costs.
• Gives everyone clarity and confidence if something goes wrong.

It’s about being prepared if the worst ever happens.

Making LPAs easier: Power of Attorney Online

Power of Attorney Online exists because the traditional process can feel overwhelming, confusing and costly — especially when families are already under pressure.

The platform was created by Matt Cresswell, following his own family’s experience when his father was diagnosed with dementia. Trying to set up an LPA while time and capacity were limited highlighted just how inaccessible the process could be. Power of Attorney Online was built to change that.

Their mission is simple: to make LPAs clear, affordable and accessible for everyone in England and Wales.

How the process works

Creating an LPA online is so straightforward that I was actually shocked when I went through the process myself.

I was expecting to have to carve out a big chunk of time and have to really get my thinking head on (which isn’t always easy with a 6 month old). But it only takes around 15 minutes to complete and you just answer some simple questions in plain English. Once submitted they’re checked by an expert to make sure there’s no errors. My original application had to be reverted back to me to make one change which is great that it was spotted.

Once approved you print, sign and post them to the Office of the Public Guardian and you’re done.

There’s no jargon so there’s less chance of errors which cause around 50,000 LPA applications to be rejected each year.

Why you should choose Power of Attorney Online

• They’re affordable – it only costs £99 per document (+ £92 OPG fee), saving up to 80% compared to solicitor fees.
• It’s clear and Stress-Free – with step-by-step guidance and no legal jargon.
• Expert Checks – reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
• It’s super convenient – you can complete everything securely from home, 24/7.
• You have peace of Mind – protect your finances, health and welfare with confidence.

It’s a modern solution to a very real problem.

Don’t leave this until it’s too late

Life is unpredictable. But one thing is within your control: choosing who speaks for you when you can’t.

A Lasting Power of Attorney isn’t just a legal document — it’s a way to protect your wishes, support your family, and give everyone clarity at a difficult time.

Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or supporting ageing parents, setting up an LPA is one of the most important steps you can take.

Protect what matters most and start your LPA today.