With the rise of digital legal services, creating an LPA online not only simplifies the procedure but also makes it more accessible, allowing people to ensure their future is secured with just a few clicks.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document, where you can name one or more people you trust to step in and make decisions for you if there comes a time when you're not able to do it yourself.
There are two kinds of LPA:
- one for health and welfare
- another for your property and financial matters
So, can you do a Lasting Power of Attorney online? The answer is yes!
This guide will walk you through setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) online, explaining what an LPA is and how to choose the right online provider. We'll focus on essential aspects like security, credibility, and user experience, ensuring you're equipped to make informed decisions confidently.
Create Your Own Tailored LPA in 10 Minutes
Simply answer a few questions to help us understand your situation and preferences. The service will then personalise your Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for you.
After payment, you can instantly download your document or opt for home delivery. With Aatos for only £99 you'll receive a free home delivery and can create a Last Will for free.
Lasting Power of Attorney Online: The process
Creating Lasting Powers of Attorney online is straightforward. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:
- Choose the Type of LPA
- Decide whether you need a Health and Welfare LPA, a Property and Financial Affairs LPA, or both.
- Register and Fill in the Form
- Visit a reputable online LPA service, create an account, and fill in the LPA form with your details.
- Choose Your Attorney(s)
- Select the person or people you trust to act as your attorney(s) and specify their powers.
- Get the Forms Witnessed
- Despite the online process, signing the forms in ink is a must. Some platforms will post the LPA to you for signature, and others let you print it yourself. An independent witness must observe your signing. That’s someone not named in the LPA and not related to anyone involved.
- Certificate Provider: A Certificate Provider needs to sign the LPA. They must be someone who has known you for at least two years, or a professional with relevant skills and expertise, such as a doctor or solicitor. Their role is to ensure that you are creating the LPA of your own free will and that you understand its implications.
- Register Your LPA
- Once completed and signed, it's time to register your LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian. Some online providers may require you to handle this step yourself, whereas others offer to arrange it for you once you post your signed LPA back to them.
Remember, every step can be completed at your own pace, so you have plenty of time to make sure you're comfortable and understand each part of the process.
Read more: Lasting Power of Attorney – A Complete Guide
Online LPA Services in the UK
When considering an online Lasting Power of Attorney in the UK, you have several options, each with their own pros and cons:
Government Websites
The gov.uk platform is cost-effective, offering a direct, straightforward process focused on legal accuracy.
The downside? It lacks personalised guidance, which can be daunting for newcomers.
⚠️ Be very careful if you’re going with this option, because errors in your application could lead to rejection and additional fees.
Legal Technology Companies
Firms like Aatos modernise the LPA process with innovative, user-friendly technology at competitive prices. They strike a balance between affordability and user support, ideal for those seeking clarity and a personalised service without the high costs of using a traditional solicitor.
Read more about LPA cost
Traditional Law Firms with Digital Solutions
For comprehensive support, some traditional law firms are starting to provide online LPA services with the advantage of expert guidance.
This option offers peace of mind through personalised assistance, but usually comes at a higher cost than the other options.
Read more about Lasting Power of Attorney forms
How Much For Lasting Power of Attorney Online?
The cost of an online LPA in the U.K. differs by service.
- Creating an LPA on gov.uk is free, but you’ll then need to pay a £82 fee to register it.
- Legal tech companies charge £90-£120 per LPA, plus the £82 government registration fee.
- Traditional law firms vary, costing £90-£500 per LPA, in addition to the £82 government registration fee.
Read more: The Cost of LPA Explained
Key Considerations When Choosing an Online LPA Service
Finding the perfect online LPA service can make a big difference. Here are a few tips to help you pick wisely:
- Company’s Track Record
- Go for a service with a solid track record. A quick look at reviews can tell you a lot about their trustworthiness.
- Keeping Your Info Safe
- Your personal details need top-notch security. Make sure the service uses strong protections and follows data protection laws.
- Helpful Customer Support
- It’s nice to have someone there when you need a hand. See if the provider’s team is easy to contact, quick to respond, and really knows their stuff. Access to a chat where you can ask questions from a jurist can be a game-changer.
- Clear Instructions
- You want guidance that gets straight to the point. The best services keep things simple, offering help at every turn without making you feel lost.
Read more: How to Use a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Create a Lasting Power of Attorney Online
Choosing the right online LPA provider is all about balance. Remember to always consider the convenience against the amount of legal advice you might need, especially if your situation is complex.
Whatever route you pick, make sure it ticks all legal boxes to make sure that your LPA is accurate and effective.