What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows an individual (known as the donor) to appoint one or more persons (known as donees) to make decisions on their behalf if they lose mental capacity in the future.
Your may select to give your donee(s) powers to decide matters about:
Your personal welfare
Your property & affairs
Both your personal welfare and property & affairs
There are two types of LPA forms in Singapore to cater to the needs of individuals:
LPA Form 1 is the standard version you use to grant general powers with basic restrictions to your donee(s). It is simpler and suitable for most people.
LPA Form 2 is used if you have specific or complex instructions for your donees. It must be drafted by a lawyer.
How to apply for a LPA?
Step 1: Choosing your donee(s):
Your donee should be someone you trust and is competent to make decisions for you if you become mentally incapacitated due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions.
Your donee must be at least 21 years old and must not be a bankrupt if you are appointing him/her for property & affairs matters.
Step 2: Complete the LPA document online
Login using Singpass and fill in the required information.
Your Donee(s) accept the appointment via Singpass.
Step 3: Visit a Certificate Issuer (CI)
Please bring the mobile phone with the number as stated in your LPA, with the Singpass app installed, when you visit the CI.
A certificate issuer, who can be a medical practitioner accredited by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), practicing lawyer, or a psychiatrist, must witness and certify that you understand the LPA and are not under undue influence or duress.
Step 4: Submitting the certified LPA
Submit the certified LPA form to the OPG.
Donor and Donee(s) will be notified of LPA status via SMS/email when accepted and registered.
Cost of making an LPA
LPA application fee*
Certificate Issuer (CI) fee (This will vary as a CI can be a lawyer, an accredited medical practitioner or a psychiatrist, please check with the CI beforehand.)
*Fee waivers are applicable for Singaporeans until 31 March 2026.
Importance of LPA
Planning for the Future:
An LPA ensures that your personal welfare, property, and financial affairs will be managed by someone you trust should you lose mental capacity one day. It provides a clear directive, preventing potential conflicts and ensuring a smoother process.
Avoids Legal Complications:
Alleviates the stress and difficulties faced by loved ones who need to apply for a Deputyship order, if the person loses mental capacity without an LPA in place.
Conclusion
Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney in Singapore is a proactive step to ensure that your affairs are managed according to your wishes if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. By appointing trusted individuals as your donee(s), you can have peace of mind knowing that your personal welfare and financial matters will be in good hands.
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