Do single people need an LPA?
Yes — and arguably more so than married people. If you are single and lose mental capacity without an LPA in place, there is no spouse to step in. Nobody — not your parents, siblings, children, or closest friend — has the legal right to manage your finances or make health decisions for you.
The only option at that point is for someone to apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship order. This costs over £1,000, takes months, and you have no say in who is appointed. See our LPA vs deputyship guide for full details.
For official information about LPAs, visit GOV.UK.
Who should a single person appoint as attorney?
This is the biggest question for single people. Here are your options:
Family members
- Adult children — if you have them, they are a natural choice.
- Siblings — a brother or sister you trust.
- Nieces or nephews — particularly if they are close and responsible.
- Parents — possible if they are younger and in good health, though consider what happens as they age.
Close friends
A trusted friend can be an excellent attorney. They should be someone who:
- You trust completely with your finances and health decisions.
- Is likely to be available and willing when needed.
- Understands your values and wishes.
- Is in reasonable health themselves.
Professional attorneys
If you do not have suitable personal contacts, a professional attorney is an option. Solicitors and some charities can act as professional attorneys. This involves ongoing fees, but it ensures a competent person is in place.
Should I appoint more than one attorney?
As a single person, appointing multiple attorneys is even more important. If you have only one attorney and they can no longer act, you are left without anyone. Consider:
- Two or more attorneys acting jointly and severally — any of them can act independently, providing redundancy.
- Replacement attorneys — people who step in if your primary attorneys can no longer act.
Having both primary and replacement attorneys gives you maximum protection.
How do I find a certificate provider?
The certificate provider confirms you understand the LPA and are not being pressured. As a single person, you might use:
- A friend who has known you for at least two years (who is not one of your attorneys or their family member).
- A professional — your GP, a social worker, an accountant, or another professional who knows you.
- A solicitor — even if you are not using one for the LPA itself, you can pay a small fee (£50-£150) for them to act as certificate provider.
Read our detailed guide on who can be a certificate provider for more information.
What if I have no one to appoint?
If you genuinely have no one suitable — no family, no close friends — there are still options:
- Professional attorneys: Some solicitor firms specialise in acting as attorneys.
- Charities: Some organisations offer attorney services for people without family support.
- Local authority: In some cases, your local council can provide information about deputyship services.
Even in these situations, having an LPA with a professional attorney is far better than having nothing and relying on the court system.
How much does it cost for a single person?
The costs are the same as for anyone:
- myLPA Guide: £39 per document or £69 for both.
- OPG registration: £92 per document.
- Total for both LPAs: £253 (£69 + £184).
myLPA Guide (mylpaguide.co.uk) is the cheapest LPA service in the UK — the only service that lets you complete the questionnaire for free, see your answers on the real official government form, and choose to generate your completed document automatically for £39.
Why should single people act now?
The risk of delay is greater for single people because:
- There is no partner to initiate a deputyship application quickly if you lose capacity.
- It may take longer for anyone to notice you need help.
- Without an obvious "next of kin," the court process for deputyship can be more complicated.
- A deputyship appointed by the court may not reflect your wishes.
Do not leave it to chance. Start your free LPA questionnaire with myLPA Guide today and take control of your future.