How much does a lasting power of attorney cost in the UK?

One of the most common questions about lasting powers of attorney is how much they cost. The honest answer is that it depends on how you set them up and whether you use a professional.

The OPG registration fee

The Office of the Public Guardian charges £82 to register each LPA in England and Wales. Since most people make both types of LPA, the standard registration fee is £164 per person. A couple making both types of LPA each would typically pay £328 in OPG fees.

Those whose income and savings fall below a certain threshold may qualify for a fee exemption or remission. You can check eligibility on the gov.uk website.

Solicitor and specialist fees

Beyond the OPG fee, most people use a solicitor or specialist LPA provider to help prepare and submit the documents. A solicitor drafting both LPAs for one person might charge between £300 and £600 in professional fees, in addition to the OPG fees. Some will offer a combined package for couples.

There is no single regulated price, so it is worth getting two or three quotes if cost is a factor.

The cost of DIY LPAs

It is possible to complete an LPA yourself using the government's online service. You would pay only the OPG registration fee, which makes it appear much cheaper.

The problem is that LPAs have specific formal requirements, and errors can cause the OPG to reject the document. A rejected LPA must be resubmitted, which means paying the registration fee again. If you lose mental capacity before a rejected LPA is corrected, you may lose the opportunity to have an LPA at all.

Why couples should do both types together

Most people need two LPAs: one for property and finance, one for health and welfare. Most couples should have both types in place. Doing all four documents together is almost always more cost-effective than doing them separately.

The cost of not having an LPA

If you lose mental capacity without an LPA, your family must apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship. The court fees, legal costs, and ongoing supervision requirements typically cost several thousand pounds in the first year alone, plus annual reporting costs thereafter.

• OPG registration: £82 per LPA (£164 for both types per person)
• Solicitor fees: typically £300-£600 per person depending on complexity
• Couples package: often available at a discount
• DIY route: OPG fees only, but higher risk of rejection
• Court of Protection deputyship if no LPA: typically £3,000 or more in year one

Devonshire Wealth connects families with LPA specialists and solicitors across the UK. Visit our lasting power of attorney page to find a provider who can give you a clear quote for your situation.