 Court of Protection - Heather Bateman's story, part one
Court of Protection - Heather Bateman's story, part two
Planning for the future
Equity release
Inheritance tax
Making a will
How to write your will
Long-term care - expert advice
Questions to ask your pensions provider
Tax and state pensions - your questions answered
Feeling the benefit - claim what's rightfully yours
Investment clubs
More from SagaGardening: get fit with green fingers
Relationships: sexual healing Life changes: retirement homes for hobbyists
Technology: green computing
People: Bryan Ferry
Picture stories: bluebell walks for charity
Experts: ask our life coach
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How to avoid the Court of Protection
An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) allows you to choose someone you trust - a spouse, relative or friend - to manage your financial affairs should you at some time in the future become unable to do so yourself, through dementia, illness or accident
You have to arrange it in advance, while you are still capable. The form you need to sign is available free online, at guardianship.gov.uk or can be bought from solicitors or even from WH Smith.
Consulting a solicitor is strongly advised, because you are agreeing, should you fall ill, to hand over your money and property to someone else.
From October 1 this year, EPAs will be replaced by Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), which in addition to financial matters can allow your chosen representative to make decisions about your health and personal welfare - for example, whether or not to consent to medical treatment.
EPAs made before October will remain valid. For more information, forms and booklets, contact the PGO Customer Service Unit on 0845 330 2900.
This article was created: 30 April 2007.
This article was last edited: 16 May 2007.
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