How long does it take to get Lasting Power of Attorney in 2025?

Summary

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a crucial legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. However, the process of applying for and registering an LPA takes time, and it’s important to understand the current waiting times and what you can do while waiting for approval. According to Gov.UK, registering an LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) currently takes 8 to 10 weeks, provided there are no mistakes in the application. This timeframe includes a statutory waiting period of four weeks, designed to allow objections to be raised before registration is finalised. In 2025, this process was significantly streamlined, reducing waiting times from the previous 16 weeks down to the current 8 to 10 weeks. However, delays can still occur if there are errors in the paperwork, missing signatures, or issues raised during the registration process. Waiting times for LPA registrations have varied over the years, with some periods experiencing significant delays. In 2022, waiting times reached 20 to 22 weeks, causing frustration for many families needing urgent access to financial or healthcare decision-making powers. These delays.

Key information

• Health and welfare LPA: Covers decisions about medical care, living arrangements, and life-sustaining treatment.
• Property and financial affairs LPA: Allows attorneys to manage bank accounts, property, and financial matters.
• The donor (the person making the LPA)
• A certificate provider (a neutral third party who confirms the donor understands the document)
• Ensure finances are in order: If the LPA is for financial affairs, make sure key accounts are accessible, and bills are set up for direct debit where possible.
• Write a living will (advance decision): This outlines your medical treatment preferences in case you become unable to communicate them.
• Discuss decisions with loved ones: Make sure your chosen attorneys understand your wishes and responsibilities.
• Check other legal documents: Ensure your will, property deeds, and other legal documents are up to date and reflect your current circumstances.
• A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a crucial legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. However, the process of applying for and registering an LPA takes time, and it’s important to understand the current waiting times and what you can do while waiting for approval.
• According to Gov.UK, registering an LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) currently takes 8 to 10 weeks, provided there are no mistakes in the application. This timeframe includes a statutory waiting period of four weeks, designed to allow objections to be raised before registration is finalised.
• In 2025, this process was significantly streamlined, reducing waiting times from the previous 16 weeks down to the current 8 to 10 weeks. However, delays can still occur if there are errors in the paperwork, missing signatures, or issues raised during the registration process.
• Waiting times for LPA registrations have varied over the years, with some periods experiencing significant delays. In 2022, waiting times reached 20 to 22 weeks, causing frustration for many families needing urgent access to financial or healthcare decision-making powers. These delays were widely reported, with cases such as one couple's year-long wait making headlines.

Practical guidance

• Source: How long does it take to get Lasting Power of Attorney in 2025?

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