When should I make a Power of Attorney

Anyone over the age of 18 can make someone their power of attorney. However, you must have capacity and be able to make your own decisions.

You can’t make someone your power of attorney after you have lost the ability to make your own decisions.

Before making someone your power of attorney, you should carefully think about the below:

• Have you spoken to the person you want to appoint as your attorney? Are they are able and willing to manage your affairs for you?
• Does your chosen attorney understand how you want them to manage your affairs?
• Are there any restrictions you want to put on your attorney’s powers?
• Have you thought about the responsibilities you are transferring to your attorney?