Administering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) used to mean relying on physical paperwork, posting original documents, waiting for them to be returned, and hoping nothing got lost in the process. Today, digital access codes make the whole process faster and more secure for both Attorneys and Donors.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
An LPA allows someone you trust (your Attorney) to make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to make them yourself. In England and Wales, Attorneys and Donors can now share LPA information with banks, utility providers and healthcare organisations using a secure online code, rather than sending the original document.

What is an LPA access code?
It’s a 13-character code, always starting with the letter “V”, that gives an organisation access to a digital summary of a registered LPA. Rather than posting a multi-page original — which can go missing or get damaged in transit — you simply hand over the code. The organisation uses it to instantly confirm the LPA’s legal status and verify who the Attorneys are.

Why use a code instead of the paper original?

• Organisations can verify the LPA immediately, with no waiting on post
• Codes are temporary, which makes them more secure than sending the original document
• If there’s more than one Attorney, each can manage things independently, from different locations
• Organisations always see the current, registered version, removing any risk of relying on an outdated copy

Setting up your “Use an LPA” account
To start generating codes, you’ll need to link your LPA to an online account:

1. Go to www.gov.uk/use-lpa
2. Sign in using your GOV.UK One Login. If you don’t already have one, the site will walk you through verifying your identity to set one up
3. Add your LPA using your activation key, which was included in the letter you received when the LPA was first registered

A couple of things worth knowing: activation keys are only valid for 12 months from registration. If yours has expired, or you’ve lost the letter, you can still create an account and request a replacement key through the portal. And if your LPA was registered before 1 January 2016, it won’t have a 12-digit reference number and can’t be used with this service – in that case, you’ll need to continue using the paper original.

Creating and sharing a code
Once your LPA is linked, you can generate a code whenever you need one. Each code lasts 50 days from creation. You can share it by phone, email, or in person, and the organisation simply enters it at www.gov.uk/view-an-lpa to view the summary. Please remember to share the code safely.

What does the organisation actually see?
The digital summary gives organisations the key legal information they need to act, including the Donor’s identity, the names of the appointed Attorneys, confirmation that the LPA is registered and valid, how decisions under the LPA are made, and any specific instructions or restrictions attached to it.

Need help with your LPA?
Whether you’re setting up a new Power of Attorney, registering an existing one, or need guidance navigating the digital access system, our team can help. Get in touch with us for advice tailored to your situation.

This blog is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified solicitor about your specific circumstances.