The Ministry of Justice has launched a refund scheme for excessive fees paid for lasting power of attorney (LPA) and enduring power of attorney (EPA) applications made between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2017.
From 1 February 2018, those who applied to register a LPA or EPA during the qualifying period are able to apply for a partial refund on the fees paid to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).
The scheme has been launched in response to the OPG’s operating costs coming down during this period, as more people applied to register a power of attorney. At the time, however, the fees were not reduced to reflect this.
B P Collins solicitor Thomas Bird comments:
“Following the reduction in the cost of the LPA registration fee last year, it is welcomed that those who registered their LPAs prior to the price change are now entitled to claim back some of the fees that were incurred.
“Claims can be made using the online service. Full guidance is also available on the OPG website.
“If you would like to contact us in order to discuss your existing LPA or about the process of making a new LPA, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.”
To speak with Thomas or a member of the wills, trusts and probate team, please call 01753 279030 or email privateclient@bpcollins.co.uk.
