The process of creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is to go online in a move the government says will make it quicker and safer. 

Benefits of Online LPAs 

LPAs are private agreements that give someone trusted authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to manage your affairs. They must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before use. There are two types of LPAs: Property and Affairs LPAs, covering decisions on property and finances, and Health and Welfare LPAs, covering decisions about medical treatments and care arrangements. 

Government Initiative 

The Powers of Attorney Act, recently granted Royal Assent, aims to bring the existing paper-based process online. This change is intended to make the system quicker, easier to access, and more secure for the thousands of people who make and rely on LPAs each year. 

Implementation and Safeguards 

The new online system, along with additional safeguards, is being developed by the Office of the Public Guardian. Extensive testing will ensure the process is simple, effective, and secure. More information on its availability will be published in the coming months. 

Official Statements 

Justice Minister Mike Freer stated, “This Act allows us to modernise the service, introduce new safeguards from fraud and abuse, and make it simpler to give people peace of mind their interests will be protected.” 

Amy Holmes, the Public Guardian for England and Wales, added, “This is a significant milestone in our plans to modernise lasting powers of attorney and we are one step closer to a quicker, more secure, and straightforward service.”