Apply for a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
In Singapore, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows a person (the "donor") to appoint one or more individuals (the "donee" or "donees") to make decisions on their behalf when they are unable to do so due to mental incapacity. The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) governs LPAs in Singapore.
An LPA covers two main areas:
Ψ Personal Welfare: This includes decisions related to the donor's healthcare, living arrangements, and personal care. The donee can make decisions about the donor's medical treatment and everyday care when the donor is mentally incapable of doing so.
Ψ Property and Affairs: This includes decisions related to the donor's financial affairs, such as managing bank accounts, selling or renting property, and making investments. The donee is responsible for managing the donor's financial matters when the donor is unable to do so.
To create an LPA in Singapore, the donor must be at least 21 years old and have the mental capacity to understand the nature and consequences of creating the LPA. The donee(s) must also meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being at least 21 years old and having the mental capacity to perform the role.
The donor must complete the LPA Form (Form 1 or Form 2), which includes specifying the powers granted to the donee(s) and any restrictions or conditions. The form must be signed by the donor, donee(s), a Certificate Issuer (a practising lawyer, psychiatrist, or accredited medical practitioner), and a witness. Once completed, the form must be submitted to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) for registration. The LPA is only valid and effective after it has been registered with the OPG.
It's essential to note that a donor can revoke or replace the LPA at any time as long as they have the mental capacity to do so. In case of any abuse or concerns, the OPG and the Singapore courts can intervene to safeguard the donor's best interests.
What are Forms 1 and 2 of an LPA?
Ψ LPA Form 1: For Donors who wish to grant Donee(s) general powers with basic restrictions.
Ψ LPA Form 2: For Donors who wish to grant Donee(s) customised powers. The clauses in the LPA Form 2 must be drafted by a lawyer qualified to practise Singapore law in a Singapore law practice.
What are the Fees Involved for a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Application Fees (payable to OPG):*
LPA Form 1 Fee - $0 (until 31 March 2026; $75 thereafter)
LPA Form 2 Fee - $200
Cancellation Fee - $75
Certificate Issuer (payable to the issuer)#:
Medical Practitioner - from $150
(contact us for a list of preferred Medical Practitioners)Lawyer - typically from $300
Psychiatrist - from $250
* Different rates apply to Singapore PRs and Foreigners
# Rates are indicative of straightforward, non-complex LPAs (updated 4 Dec 2023)
How do I contact a Certificate Issuer for my Lasting Power of Attorney?
When completing your LPA, the LPA Form will have to be witnessed and certified by an LPA certificate issuer. Any one of the following professionals in Singapore can be the certificate issuer for your LPA:
A) a medical practitioner accredited by the Public Guardian;
B) a practising Singapore lawyer; or
C) a psychiatrist
Annabelle Psychology and GP+ Coop Limited is excited to announce that we are providing Certificate Issuer services for a nominal fee to allow Singaporeans to obtain a certificate from a medical practitioner accredited by the Public Guardian.
