What an LPA costs and how long it takes

Two costs, and two stages to allow for.

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) lets you choose people to make decisions for you within the authority you give them. When comparing prices, separate the fee for preparing the document from the government fee for registering it. When planning the timetable, allow for preparation and signing as well as registration.

At CCM, straightforward LPAs start from £120 each including VAT. The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) charges £92 to register each document, unless a reduction or exemption applies. We confirm the work and total price before you decide to proceed.

How many documents do you need?

There are two types: property and financial affairs, and health and welfare. You can make either or both. A couple wanting both types needs four documents: two for each person. The appointment is personal to you, even if you and your partner choose the same attorneys.

A financial LPA covers decisions such as bills, bank accounts and property. Depending on your instructions, it can be used after registration with your permission while you still have capacity. A health and welfare LPA can only be used when you cannot make the relevant decision yourself. Choosing attorneys deserves thought, whatever your age.

What the total can look like.

For straightforward instructions, the starting figures below combine CCM’s fee, including VAT, with the full OPG registration fee. They assume no fee reduction or exemption:

One LPA: CCM from £120, plus £92 registration, giving a total from £212. Both types for one person: CCM from £240, plus £184 registration, giving a total from £424. Both types for a couple: CCM from £480, plus £368 registration, giving a total from £848.

These are starting prices, rather than a quote for every situation. Tell us about business interests, unusual restrictions or concerns about capacity before we agree the scope. Ask what any quote includes, who handles the registration application and whether additional work is separately chargeable.

Could the registration fee be reduced?

Eligibility depends on the person making the LPA, known as the donor. Under the current OPG rules, income before tax below £12,000 a year can qualify for a 50% reduction. Certain means-tested benefits can qualify for an exemption. Universal Credit is assessed for a reduction rather than an exemption.

Check the evidence requirements before submitting the application. A reduction in the government fee does not automatically reduce the preparation fee. The current rules and application form are on GOV.UK’s fee-reduction page.

How long should you allow?

CCM aims to issue your first draft within 14 business days of receiving complete instructions. You then need time to review it, resolve queries and arrange signatures. That preparation timetable is separate from OPG registration. Missing information or more complex instructions can affect the first-draft target.

OPG currently says registration takes 8 to 10 weeks if the application contains no mistakes. This is an estimate for registration, not a promise that the whole process will finish within ten weeks of your first meeting. Our preparation and review stages come before the completed application is submitted.

Plan ahead of a foreseeable need. Tell us about urgent circumstances at the outset so we can explain what is possible. You must have the necessary mental capacity when making an LPA; registration is not a way to create a new appointment after that capacity has already been lost.

What can delay the application?

Incorrect names, missing signatures, unsuitable wording and signing in the wrong order can all create problems. The donor, certificate provider and attorneys have distinct roles. The certificate provider confirms the required understanding and freedom from pressure; they are not simply another witness.

Follow the signing instructions supplied with the document. Allow time for everyone involved, particularly if attorneys live elsewhere. Check the final paperwork before posting it and keep a record of submission. If OPG raises a query, deal with it promptly; some errors can mean a repeat application and another fee.

Prepare for your first conversation.

Bring identification, address details, any existing powers of attorney and the names and contact details of proposed attorneys and replacements. Think about how attorneys should work together, and tell us about any instructions you want to include. You do not need every answer before we meet.

Read about our lasting power of attorney service in Rochdale, or book a free initial consultation at Chichester House or on Zoom. Optional secure document storage is £30 a year including VAT for one person or a couple and includes registered LPAs.

General information for England and Wales, reviewed 22 October 2026. Sources: OPG registration fees and timescales and OPG’s making and registering an LPA guide.