Overview
When someone has mental capacity but wants someone else to manage their affairs, they can grant them power of attorney.
A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone else permission to make decisions on your behalf if you no longer have the ability or no longer want to make decisions yourself.
They might need help with:
- managing their finances, such as their bank account, savings or investments
- claiming and managing benefits
- buying or selling property
- making decisions about their care
A person must have mental capacity when they appoint a power of attorney. If they don't, see our guidance on what to do when someone lacks mental capacity.
Visit GOV.UK to:
- make decisions on behalf of someone else
- make, register or end a lasting power of attorney
- find out if someone already has an attorney or deputy
- get information on making a will
More information
Age UK has guidance on power of attorney.
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