LP1F explained, section by section

Guidance from Estate Advisory Group

LP1F runs to around twenty pages. Most of it is guidance; the parts that go wrong are few and predictable.

The sections that matter

SectionWhat it doesCommon error
1 — DonorYour detailsName not matching legal name; wrong date of birth
2 — AttorneysWho you appointMissing dates of birth; nicknames
3 — How they actJointly or jointly and severallyLeft blank, or hybrid wording that contradicts itself
4 — ReplacementsBackup attorneysOrdering wording the OPG rejects
5 — When it can be usedNow, or only on loss of capacityNot ticked
6 — People to notifyOptional noticesNamed but LP3 never sent
7 — Preferences & instructionsYour wishes and rulesInstructions that are unlawful or vague
9–11 — SignaturesDonor, certificate provider, attorneysDates in the wrong order
15 — Applicant & feeWho registers and paysFee reduction claimed without evidence

The 'when it can be used' choice

Unique to LP1F: you choose whether attorneys can act as soon as it is registered (with your consent) or only once you lack capacity. Acting now is convenient if you would like help with banking while still capable; the restricted option gives a harder line.

How we handle it

You never see the form while you answer. We ask plain questions, run eligibility checks on your attorneys and certificate provider, check the whole document for contradictions, and then produce the official-format LP1F with your answers in the right boxes. Read more about the financial LPA.

Common questions

Do I need to print it double-sided?

The OPG accepts single-sided printing. What matters is that every page is present, in order, and unaltered. Our pack tells you exactly what to print.

Can I handwrite corrections?

Minor corrections initialled by the donor are sometimes accepted, but anything touching names, dates or signatures usually means reprinting.

Read next

Ready to make yours?

Answer five quick questions to see whether our service suits you. No account and no payment needed.

This is general information about how Lasting Powers of Attorney work in England and Wales. It is not legal advice about your situation. What we do and do not do.

Published by Estate Advisory Group