What You'll Need
To use your Power of Attorney, you'll need the full set of paperwork you received back from the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Look for punch marks spelling out [VALIDATED-OPG], along with a registration date and an OPG reference number. Here's what it will look like in both the old and new formats:
Using an Activation Key (For LPAs Registered After 17 July 2020)
If your Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) was registered on or after 17 July 2020 (England and Wales only) you and the attorney will have received an activation key from the OPG. This key allows you to:
Set up an online account via GOV.UK's Use a Lasting Power of Attorney service.
Generate an access code to share with banks, utilities, and other organisations so they can view a digital summary of the LPA.
Many businesses accept these digital codes as proof of the LPA, though some may still require a paper copy.
Where to Find Your Activation Key
- If your LPA was registered after 17 July 2020, the key is on the letter confirming registration.
- If your LPA was registered before this date, you can request an activation key through the Use a Lasting Power of Attorney service.
Keeping It Safe & Making Certified Copies
The original document is crucial, so keep it safe! If you need to provide copies, they must be certified to be legally accepted.