LPA vs ordinary power of attorney
Guidance from Estate Advisory Group
An ordinary power of attorney is a short-term tool for someone who can still make their own decisions. It stops working exactly when a family needs it most.
The critical difference
| Ordinary / general PoA | Lasting Power of Attorney | |
|---|---|---|
| Works after loss of capacity | No — it is automatically revoked | Yes, that is its purpose |
| Registration | None | Must be registered with the OPG |
| Cost | Little or nothing | £92 per LPA plus any preparation fee |
| Typical use | A trip abroad, a house sale, temporary illness | Long-term planning for dementia, stroke, injury |
When an ordinary PoA is the right tool
- You are abroad for six months and need someone to manage a property sale.
- You are recovering from surgery and want help with banking for a few weeks.
- You want a specific, limited task handled and you retain full capacity throughout.
Why families still need an LPA
It cannot be created later
An LPA can only be made while the donor understands it. Once capacity has gone, the only route is a Court of Protection deputyship — slower, more expensive and not your choice. See what happens without an LPA.
Common questions
Can I have both?
Yes. An ordinary power of attorney can handle something immediate while your LPA is going through registration.
Will a bank accept an ordinary power of attorney?
Some will for limited purposes, but many are cautious and most will refuse once there is any doubt about the account holder's capacity.
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