Go for it!

Enduring Power of Attorney

You are able to look after your own money every day, and you may take this ability for granted. But have you thought about what would happen if you couldn't?

If you were to lose mental capacity - due to dementia, illness or accident you may no longer be able to make your own financial decisions. This is a real risk for all of us, so it’s important to know what steps you can take now to choose somebody you trust to manage and protect your financial well-being in the future. One way is to make an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA).

An EPA allows you to choose someone you trust (an attorney) to manage your financial affairs, in the event that you become unable to do so yourself.

You should be aware that an EPA is a powerful document, and could allow whoever you have chosen unrestricted access to your finances.

If you have an EPA and then lose mental capacity, then whoever you have chosen to manage your financial affairs must register the document with the Court of Protection before they can legally use it.

If you are interested in finding out more about Enduring Power of Attorney please contact a solicitor or:

Public Guardianship Office, Archway Tower, 2 Junction Road, London, N19 5SZ

Email: custserv@guardianship.gsi.gov.uk
Website: www.guardianship.gov.uk
Tel: 0845 330 2900 (local call rate)

Our Go For It Features:

Go to the news archive.