Biggest Power of Attorney Change in 20 Years: What the 2026 LPA Reforms Mean for You
From October 2026, the Powers of Attorney Act 2023 brings the biggest modernisation of Lasting Powers of Attorney in two decades — including a new digital service and stronger safeguards. Here's what families in Oldham and Rochdale need to know.
On 1 October 2026, the biggest change to Power of Attorney law in over 20 years comes into force in England and Wales. The remaining provisions of the Powers of Attorney Act 2023 will modernise how Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are made, registered and supervised. If you've been thinking about setting up an LPA — or you already have one — here's a plain-English guide to what's changing and why it matters for families across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside.
Why the law is changing
LPAs were introduced in 2007, and the paper-based process has barely changed since. Complaints about alleged financial misconduct by attorneys reached a record high in 2025, prompting calls for stronger safeguards. The 2023 Act — fully taking effect in October 2026 — is the government's response: a faster, more modern system with better protections for vulnerable people.
What's new from October 2026
- A new digital service to create and register LPAs online, designed to be simpler and faster than the paper process.
- Stronger identity checks and new safeguards to help prevent fraud and undue pressure.
- More flexibility to choose how your attorneys act — including allowing them to act jointly in some decisions and individually in others.
- Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) made before 2007 remain valid, but no new EPAs can be created.
"An LPA can only be made while you still have mental capacity. The new digital service makes it easier — but the golden rule hasn't changed: don't wait until you need it."
— Office of the Public Guardian guidance
Do I need to redo an existing LPA?
No. LPAs already registered with the Office of the Public Guardian remain fully valid — you don't need to make a new one just because the rules are changing. However, if your circumstances have changed (a divorce, a bereavement, or your attorney is no longer able to act), the reform is a good prompt to review your existing LPA and make sure it still reflects your wishes.
Why now is the right time
The new digital service should make setting up an LPA quicker, but the legal decisions behind it — who you trust, how they act, and what matters to you — still deserve careful thought. We help families across Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside set up both Property & Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare LPAs, explaining every option in plain English at your kitchen table. There's no rush and no pressure — just friendly, expert guidance.
Sources & further reading
We believe in honest, well-sourced advice. These independent, official resources offer more detail on the topics covered above.
- The Law Society — Powers of Attorney Act 2023The Law Society's summary of the Act and what it changes for LPAs.
- Gov.uk — Make, register or end a lasting power of attorneyOfficial guidance on setting up and registering an LPA.
- Office of the Public GuardianThe public body that registers and supervises LPAs in England and Wales.
- Age UK — Lasting Power of AttorneyClear, trusted guidance aimed at older people and their families.
Talk it through with a friendly local expert
Reading is a great start — but a quick chat can answer everything specific to your family. Free home visits across Oldham, Rochdale & Tameside.