Between 2013 and 2017, £77 million is still unclaimed.
The Government is urging people to check their
eligibility for a lasting power of attorney (LPA) fee refund, after almost two
million people were overcharged by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG)
between 2013 and 2017.
Claimants can expect to receive a refund of up to £54,
with any accrued interested since the registration was made.
So far, only 200,000 of the 1.8 million people owed have
claimed their refund. In total, £12 million has been paid out, with over £77
million yet to be claimed.
An LPA is an important legal document that gives a loved
one the power to make decisions on behalf of a family member when they can no
longer do so, for example if they lose mental capacity. There are two types of
LPAs; one for property and financial affairs and the other for health and
welfare.
Anyone who feels as though they are due a refund has
until February 2021 to apply. It takes about ten minutes to claim online and
applicants only need the donor’s bank details and a copy of the LPA, if they
have it.
To apply for a refund visit:
http://gov.uk/power-of-attorney-refund
If you need help or more information about making a
claim, there’s a Refunds Helpline you can contact, either via telephone on 0300
456 0300 or email poarefunds@justice.gov.uk
The exact amount will depend on when the registration was
made, and claims must be made by 1st February 2021.
