How to Search the OPG LPA Register
Step-by-step: how to check if someone has a registered Power of Attorney in England and Wales.
Written by Anthony Dalton · Reviewed by James Tyrrell · Last reviewed
Wondering if a Lasting Power of Attorney has been registered for someone you care about? The OPG LPA register helps you find out—whether you’re a family member, solicitor, or organisation.
At a glance
- Anyone can request a search of the OPG LPA register — it is free of charge
- You need the person’s full name, date of birth, and ideally their address to search
- Results typically arrive within one to two weeks by letter or email
- Full LPA copies are only released to those with a direct legal interest (donor, attorney, or court)
Quick answer: The OPG LPA register allows you to check if an LPA exists for an adult in England or Wales. You can search for free by requesting a search through the Office of the Public Guardian — but you’ll only receive basic information about the LPA unless you’re directly involved.
What Is the OPG LPA Register?
The OPG (Office of the Public Guardian) maintains a secure central register of all registered LPAs. It shows who has power, for which type (Property & Financial Affairs or Health & Welfare), and some key details. The aim is to help prevent fraud and protect the person who made the LPA (the donor).
How to Search for an LPA on the Register
Fill in the OPG’s search request
Go to the GOV.UK page for searching the register and use the online or paper form.
Give the details you have
You’ll need the person’s full name, date of birth, and (if possible) address.
Wait for the OPG’s reply
You’ll usually get a letter or email within a week or two.
What Information Do You Get from an OPG LPA Register Search?
- Basic confirmation if an LPA exists
- Name(s) of attorney(s) and donor
- Type of LPA (Property & Financial, Health & Welfare, or both)
- Date of registration and status (e.g. revoked, active)
Full copies of the LPA or detailed provisions are only given to those with proper legal interest (such as the donor, their attorney, or the courts).
Practical Example
Helen’s uncle recently lost capacity. The family weren’t sure if he’d made an LPA. Using the OPG’s register search, they found he had — saving a huge amount of stress and uncertainty.
Common Pitfalls with LPA Register Searches
- Wrong name or DOB — If the details are incorrect, OPG can’t confirm the LPA’s existence.
- Thinking the register is public — The register isn’t open to everyone — only certain information is disclosed.
- Expecting instant results — There’s no instant online search as of 2024 — you must wait for a reply from the OPG.
Need to create your LPA before registering it? Our guided service helps you get everything right first time. See pricing.
Key Takeaways
- The search is free — there is no charge to request a search of the OPG register, though official copies of LPA documents may incur a small fee
- No instant online lookup exists — you must submit a request to the OPG and wait for a reply, typically one to two weeks
- Basic details only — the register confirms whether an LPA exists, the type, the attorney names, and its status, but full copies are restricted
- Accurate personal details are essential — incorrect name or date of birth will prevent the OPG from confirming whether an LPA is registered
Common Questions About OPG LPA Register Search
Can anyone search the LPA register?
Anyone can ask the OPG to search the LPA register, though some details may be withheld unless you are directly involved.
Is the information from the OPG LPA register always up to date?
The register is updated with new registrations and removals, but it can sometimes take a few weeks for changes to be reflected.
What does an OPG LPA register search cost?
The search itself is free — but you may pay a small fee if you request an official copy of the LPA from OPG.
This guide was last reviewed and updated on . Information is based on current legislation and OPG guidance for England and Wales.
Official Guidance
Further reading from GOV.UK
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