The Guardian reports that the current complex system of giving someone power of attorney over your financial affairs is being reformed – and people are being urged to put arrangements in place before it’s too late. Appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) before health problems set in gives the peace of mind that someone else will have legal control over financial matters and health decisions when the time comes. Considered to be the second most important document after a will, the LPA was introduced to replace the Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in the hope of eliminating abuse of the power of attorney system. Unfortunately, the LPA form has proved to be extremely difficult, time-consuming and expensive to complete which has put off many people from going through the process. Now that it is due to be reformed, it is hoped that more people will take this opportunity to ensure that their future is in safe hands should ill health set in.
The cost of registering the LPA form has already been cut from £150 to £120 and amendments to the form itself are expected to take place from October 2009. The Office of the Public Guardian, which registers the LPAs, is also trying to simplify its procedures in order to reduce the mistakes and delays that have hampered the current system. Anyone appointing a LPA will still need to go through a solicitor, but the cost can be reduced by deciding in advance who will act as your attorney and what scope you want their authority to cover. To set up an LPA, your solicitor must be qualified to give advice on care planning; you can search for a qualified practitioner in your area at the Solicitors for the Elderly website.
posted by Cheselden Continuing Care at
12:22
