Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
Plan for the unexpected. Appoint trusted people to make healthcare and financial decisions for you if you ever lose the ability to do so yourself.
Create Your LPASelf Protection
Ensure someone you trust handles your affairs if you become incapacitated.
Family Peace
Avoid family disputes about who makes decisions and what you would have wanted.
Legal Authority
Your appointed persons have legal power to act on your behalf immediately when needed.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more people (called "donees") to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity - due to dementia, stroke, accident, or illness.
Unlike a will (which only takes effect after death), an LPA provides protection while you're still alive but unable to manage your own affairs. It must be made while you still have mental capacity - you cannot create one after losing capacity.
Why an LPA Matters
Without an LPA, if you lose mental capacity, your family will need to apply to the court to be appointed as your "deputy." This process typically costs $5,000-$15,000, takes 6-12 months, and requires annual reporting. An LPA costs a fraction and takes effect immediately when needed.
Two Types of Decisions
An LPA covers two categories of decisions. You can appoint different people for each, or the same person for both:
Personal Welfare
Decisions about your daily life and healthcare:
- Where you live (nursing home, with family, etc.)
- Day-to-day care and welfare
- Medical treatment decisions
- Who can visit you
Property & Affairs
Decisions about your finances and property:
- Managing bank accounts
- Paying bills and expenses
- Buying or selling property
- Managing investments
LPA Forms Explained
LPA Form 1 (Standard)
Most CommonThe simplified standard form suitable for most people. Uses pre-set powers with no customisation. Faster to complete and cheaper.
Includes:
- • Standard powers for both categories
- • Basic restrictions (no gifts, no property sale without court order)
- • Straightforward process
Cost:
- • $75 registration (subsidised)
- • $25 certificate issuer fee (if accredited)
- • Or $200-500 via lawyer
LPA Form 2 (Customised)
Complex NeedsFor those who need customised powers, additional restrictions, or specific conditions. More flexible but more complex.
Use When:
- • You want to grant specific limited powers
- • You need additional restrictions
- • Complex financial situations
- • Special instructions for donees
Cost:
- • $75 registration (subsidised)
- • Lawyer drafting: $300-800
- • More complex = higher cost
The LPA Process
Choose Your Donees
Select one or more trusted individuals aged 21+. They cannot be bankrupt (for Property & Affairs) or your paid care provider (for Personal Welfare).
Complete the Form
Fill out LPA Form 1 (online at opg.gov.sg) or have a lawyer prepare Form 2. Include donee details and your choices.
Certificate Issuer Verification
A Certificate Issuer (lawyer, doctor, or accredited person) must verify you understand the LPA and are making it voluntarily. They certify your mental capacity.
Registration with OPG
Submit your LPA to the Office of the Public Guardian. Registration takes 2-4 weeks. Your LPA is only valid once registered.
LPA Takes Effect When Needed
Your LPA only activates if you lose mental capacity. Until then, you retain full control. If you never lose capacity, the LPA is never used.
Choosing Your Donees
Who to Choose
Select people who are trustworthy, understand your values, are available when needed, and can handle the responsibility. Common choices include spouse, adult children, siblings, or trusted friends.
Multiple Donees
You can appoint more than one donee to act jointly (all must agree), jointly and severally (can act independently), or as replacements (backup if first choice can't serve).
Different Donees for Different Powers
You might appoint your spouse for Personal Welfare (they know your care preferences) but an adult child with financial expertise for Property & Affairs.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OPG Registration Fee | $75 | Government subsidised (normally $200) |
| Accredited Certificate Issuer | $25 | For Form 1 only; list on OPG website |
| Lawyer (Form 1) | $200 - $400 | If using lawyer instead of accredited CI |
| Lawyer (Form 2) | $300 - $800 | Includes drafting and certification |
| Will + LPA Bundle | $500 - $1,500 | Discounted when done together |
LPA vs Will: Different Documents, Different Purposes
| Feature | LPA | Will |
|---|---|---|
| Takes effect | During your lifetime (if incapacitated) | After your death |
| Purpose | Decision-making when you can't | Asset distribution after death |
| Covers | Healthcare + finances while alive | Your estate after death |
| Do you need both? | Yes - they serve different purposes at different times | |
Important: Make Your LPA Now
You can only create an LPA while you have mental capacity. Once you've lost capacity (from dementia, stroke, etc.), it's too late. Don't wait until there's a health scare - the best time to make an LPA is when you're healthy and thinking clearly.
Create Your LPA Today
Get matched with professionals who can help you set up your LPA quickly and affordably. Many offer will + LPA packages for complete protection.
Get Free Quote