A survey conducted in August 2026 of 1,096 Which? Connect panel members found that approximately half had not registered a power of attorney. For those who had, the average age of setup was 68, with many waiting until their 70s or later.
Power of attorney allows someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, but it must be registered while you still have that capacity. Delaying registration risks needing a deputyship through the courts, which can cost thousands of pounds and involves more documentation.
Reasons given for not registering included believing it wasn't necessary due to current mental capacity or good health, or having a trusted person to help. However, a trusted person still requires a power of attorney to interact with organisations like banks and councils.
Which? is offering a discount of up to 30% on its online power of attorney service, with prices starting at £79.20. This offer is set to conclude on 31 October 2026.