Six commonly asked questions about power of attorney

If you’re thinking about setting up a Power of Attorney in the UK, you’re not alone; it raises a lot of questions.

What exactly is a UK Power of Attorney?

Simply put, it’s a legal document that lets someone you trust make decisions on your behalf if you can’t. That could be about your money, property, or health and care.

Who can I choose as my attorney?

It should be someone responsible and trustworthy. This can be a family member, friend, or even a professional. You can have more than one, and you can specify if they act together or separately. Some POAs are immediate and start as soon as you sign them. Most only kick in if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself.

What’s the difference between health and financial POAs?

Health and care POAs cover medical decisions, living arrangements and daily care. Financial POAs handle money, property, bills, and other assets. A UK power of attorney doesn’t mean that you give up control of your affairs. MoneySavingExpert’s Martin Lewis has urged the Scottish Government to improve the Power of Attorney system in a new letter.

Can I cancel or change it?

Yes, as long as you still have mental capacity. You can revoke it, replace attorneys, or update it. You can register a POA through the Office of the Public Guardian yourself, but a solicitor can make the process smoother and ensure everything is legally watertight. Setting up a POA might feel daunting, but it’s all about protecting yourself and your loved ones.