When can my Lasting Power of Attorney be used?

Once registered, the Finance and Property Lasting Power of Attorney can be used straight away with your permission. This means that you can use it if you need help with your finances – for example, because you’re finding them difficult to manage or because you are detained in a hospital for a long period of time. Note that this is an option you must select on the form – if you do not select it, you may find that your Attorneys have to prove you have lost mental capacity every time they want to use the document. This can cause delays and problems.

The Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney can only be used if you lose mental capacity.