Your legal affairs

It's easy to keep putting it off, but taking some time now to put your legal and financial affairs in order for the future can give you and your loved ones real peace of mind.

It's never too early to start planning — there may come a time when you need to make decisions for a loved one, or they might need to make decisions for you — that's why it's important you talk to them and let them know your wishes. Show them where you keep your legal and financial documents (bank statements, insurance policies, property deeds and so on) so they know where to find them and can make sure your wishes are carried out.

Make a will

To make sure your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of, it's really important you write a will. Not doing so could have serious consequences for those you leave behind as your money, personal belongings and property may not go to the people you intended.

You can write your will yourself, but it's better to get help from a solicitor as there are certain criteria your will must meet to make it valid. You may also need to seek legal advice concerning more complex matters such as the effect of Inheritance Tax on your estate.

Find out more about writing a will at gov.uk/make-will.

Power of attorney

What would happen if you had an accident or an illness that meant you were no longer able to make decisions for yourself?

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you (the 'donor') appoint one or more people (known as 'attorneys') to help you make decisions or to make them on your behalf. These decisions could be about everyday things like what to wear or when to pay a bill, or more important decisions like making a will or deciding where to live.

While you're still fit and well, you can set up an LPA to give someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf.

There are two types of LPA:

• Health and welfare LPA — this allows your chosen 'attorney' to make decisions about your medical treatment and personal welfare
• Property and financial affairs LPA — this allows your chosen 'attorney' to make decisions about your finances, such as paying bills or selling your home.

The role of attorney carries a great deal of responsibility, so it's important to think carefully about who you'd like to fulfil it. You must be able to trust them to make decisions that are in your best interests.

For more information go to gov.uk/power-of-attorney.

You can also contact the Office of the Public Guardian by emailing customerservices@publicguardian.gsi.gov.uk or calling 0300 456 0300.