What are the Costs of Registering a Lasting Power of Attorney? Does Everyone have to pay?

Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones from unnecessary stress, expenses and time delays. However, one vital step associated with the creation of these provisions is the registration of the documents with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).

Why does an LPA need to be Registered?

For the documents to be legally valid, they must be registered with the OPG. Registration ensures the document is officially recognised, allowing your chosen attorneys to act on your behalf.

How much does it cost to register an LPA?

The current registration fee is £92 per Lasting Power of Attorney.

There are two types of LPA – a Property & Financial Affairs LPA and a Health & Welfare LPA. Many people decide to register both documents for convenience and peace of mind. The total registration fee for both documents is currently £184. This fee is paid to the OPG, and it is separate to any professional legal fees required to prepare the documents.

Does Everyone Have to Pay the Full Registration Fee?

No, not necessarily.

The Office of the Public Guardian offers fee exemptions and reductions for people who meet certain financial criteria.

Full Fee Exemption

You may not have to pay any registration fee if you (the donor) receive certain qualifying means-tested benefits.

These can include:

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

• Other qualifying means-tested benefits as determined by the Office of the Public Guardian

It's important to note that eligibility is based on the donor's financial circumstances, not those of the attorney.

50% Fee Reduction

If your gross annual income is below £12,000 before tax, you may qualify for a 50% reduction in the registration fee.

This means the fee would be reduced to:

• £46 per LPA

• £92 if registering both LPAs

What About Universal Credit?

If you receive Universal Credit, you cannot receive a full fee exemption. However, the Office of the Public Guardian will assess your circumstances to determine whether you qualify for a fee remission, which may reduce the amount you need to pay.

Hardship Applications

If you do not qualify for a fee exemption or remission but paying the registration fee would cause genuine financial hardship, you can apply directly to the Office of the Public Guardian for a hardship reduction.

Each application is considered on its individual circumstances, and supporting financial information will usually be required.

How Taylor Lucas Partnership Can Help

Preparing and registering a Lasting Power of Attorney can seem daunting, but you don't have to do it alone.

At Taylor Lucas Partnership, our experienced advisors can help you prepare your Property & Financial Affairs LPA and Health & Welfare LPA accurately and efficiently. We'll also advise whether you may qualify for a fee exemption, remission or reduction and guide you through the registration process from start to finish.

Protect Your Future Today

A registered Lasting Power of Attorney gives you peace of mind that your wishes will be respected and that your loved ones can act on your behalf without unnecessary legal complications.

Contact The Taylor Lucas Partnership today to discuss the preparation of your LPA documents and to obtain advice on the complex registration process. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you protect your future, minimise unnecessary costs and ensure your wishes are safeguarded for years to come.