What is the difference between the two types of Lasting Power of Attorney?

Nominating someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf about your finances and property is a different kettle of fish to having them make decisions about your health and welfare.

That’s why there are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA). The one regarding property and financial affairs can be activated, with your permission, once it has been registered. It means your attorney can immediately start managing your bank and building society accounts, pay bills and collect your benefits or pension.

However, the LPA concerning health and welfare can only be used once you have lost mental capacity. If you have lost the ability to understand and make a decision when it needs to be made, your attorney can answer questions on your behalf. These may include the consent for medical treatment or where you live or personal care things like washing, dressing and eating.

We advise having both LPAs in place. It is not the case, as many people wrongly believe, that someone allowed to make financial decisions can automatically make decisions relating to health and care.

Appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf by contacting Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.