For most people, the honest answer is: when I first set it up. But life doesn’t stand still and neither should your legal arrangements.
An LPA is one of the most important documents you’ll ever put in place, giving someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. But are the people you originally chose still the right people today? Are they still in your life, still someone you trust implicitly, and do they have the time and capacity to act for you?
A Personal Prompt
I’ve recently been going through this myself. My son has turned 18, which means he can now legally act as an attorney. I’m updating my LPA so he can step in as a replacement attorney for my husband should anything happen. And let’s be honest — men do tend to go first, don’t they?!
Do You Have Both Types?
Many people don’t realise there are two types of LPA and both matter.
A Health & Welfare LPA covers medical treatment, care arrangements and living situations. A Property & Financial Affairs LPA allows your attorney to manage bank accounts, bills, investments and pensions, and can even be used while you still have capacity.
Without both, decisions about your life could fall to people you wouldn’t have chosen, or be delayed through costly legal processes.
Review It Like Your Will
Revisit your LPA after any major life change – children turning 18, marriage or divorce, shifts in relationships, or changes in health or finances. It takes less time than you think, and the peace of mind is priceless.
