The Two Types of Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to choose someone you trust, called your “attorney”, to make decisions for you if/when it becomes difficult or you are unable to. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney in England and Wales, but they do separate tasks. Most people set up both since they address different aspects of life.

1) Property and Financial Affairs LPA

It covers everything in terms of money and assets, including;

Bank account management and bill payments

Collecting pensions or benefits

Dealing with investments

Buying and selling housing (if necessary).

Note: You can already use this LPA while you are not so able-bodied if you like, as long as your mental capacity is still OK. Useful if you’re travelling, sick or need help with the admin as long as it has been registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) before it can be used. For Power of Attorney Hertfordshire, visit beesandco.com/our-services/power-of-attorney/hertfordshire/

2) Health and Welfare LPA

This relates to care and medical treatment, like:

Day-to-day care (washing, dressing, eating)

Care home options and supporting roles

Medical treatment decisions

Please indicate if you provide authority for life-sustaining treatment.

However, the important thing to note here is that this LPA can be only used if you are unable to make a decision yourself. It further needs to be registered with the OPG.

Which one do you need?

If you need help with bills and bank accounts, consider a Property and Financial Affairs LPA. If you want care and treatment to be discussed it has to be Health and Welfare.

Real-world tip: Time is running out! LPAs are not a quick fix, and they have to be made while you still have the capacity.