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LPA registration timeline tracker
Built from the Office of the Public Guardian's GOV.UK guidance and forms, checked 29 October 2026. England and Wales. General information, not legal advice.
Quick answer
GOV.UK says it takes 8 to 10 weeks to register an LPA if there are no mistakes,1 and up to 16 weeks on its page for attorneys.3 OPG can't register any LPA until a legal four-week wait has passed,2 and people to notify have 3 weeks from their LP3 notice to object.4 Enter your dates to see your own timeline.
LPA registration tracker
Enter what you know. The dates are worked out in your browser and never leave it.
Enter the date you sent the LPA to see your timeline.
These are the published time limits and GOV.UK's own estimates, not a promise from OPG. OPG's legal four-week wait runs from when it gives notice of the application, which is after it receives your LPA, so the real date is a little later than the "no earlier than" date shown.
What happens at each stage
| Stage | Time | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| LP3 notices given | Just before you send the LPA2 | One LP3 per person to notify, per LPA2 |
| Objection window | 3 weeks from each LP3 notice4 | Nothing, unless someone objects |
| Legal wait | 4 weeks before OPG can register2 | Nothing |
| Registration | 8 to 10 weeks with no mistakes1; up to 16 weeks3 | OPG stamps the original and posts it back2 |
| If OPG returns it | Reapply within 3 months1 | £46 repeat fee, or £23 with a remission5 |
| If fee help is refused | Ask for a review within 28 days5 | OPG decides within 21 days5 |
When to chase OPG
If you have heard nothing after 16 weeks, the longest time GOV.UK gives, call OPG on 0300 456 0300 with the donor's name and any case number from OPG's letters. The LPA can't be used until it is registered and stamped.2 If something went wrong, see LPA rejected: what to do.
- Check if you pay £92, half, or nothing
- Get every signature in the right order first time
- Know what to do after it's registered
- Decide who should be your attorneys, with simple worksheets
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to register an LPA?
GOV.UK says it takes 8 to 10 weeks if there are no mistakes in the application. Its page for attorneys says it can take up to 16 weeks. OPG cannot register an LPA until a legal four-week wait has passed.
How long do people to notify have to object?
3 weeks from the date they were given the LP3 notice.
Can I use the LPA before it's registered?
No. An LPA can't be used until OPG has registered it. OPG stamps the original and posts it back.
Sources & references
Every fee, form and time limit in this tool comes from the Office of the Public Guardian's GOV.UK pages and forms below, checked on the date shown. Always confirm on GOV.UK before you act.
- Register a lasting power of attorney — GOV.UKLast checked 29 October 2026
- LP12: Make and register your lasting power of attorney, a guide (web version, updated 20 April 2026) — GOV.UKLast checked 29 October 2026
- Manage a lasting power of attorney — GOV.UKLast checked 29 October 2026
- LP3: Form to notify people — GOV.UKLast checked 29 October 2026
- LPA120: Get help with paying power of attorney fees (04.26) — GOV.UKLast checked 29 October 2026
Settle publishes general information for England and Wales. It is not a law firm, does not provide legal advice, and does not write wills or prepare, check or register LPAs. For advice about your situation, speak to a solicitor or a free advice service.