Planning for the future is something that not everybody considers, but it is always better to be prepared. One of the ways to be prepared for the future is by having an LPA or Lasting Power of Attorney certificate. An LPA is a legal document that authorizes a person to make decisions on behalf of another individual in case of mental incapacity or disability. Creating an LPA isn’t enough. You need to have it registered with the Office of Public Guardian (OPG). However, this registration can be quite expensive, making people wonder if there are cheaper options. In this article, we’ll explore the cheapest LPA certificate issuer in Singapore.
What is an LPA Certificate?
First and foremost, before diving into the cheapest LPA Certificate issuer in Singapore, let’s establish what an LPA certificate is. As mentioned, it is a legal document that authorizes a person to make decisions on behalf of another individual in case of mental incapacity or disability. They are divided into two categories: Property and Affairs LPA and Personal Welfare LPA. The former covers the management of finances, while the latter covers decisions regarding healthcare.
Where can you get an LPA Certificate?
There are several places to get an LPA Certificate in Singapore. The first is to engage a lawyer who will create an LPA, then register it with the OPG. The second is to use a professional will writing and estate planning service provider like Rockwills Trustee Ltd. or GEP. The third is to use the community legal aid clinic at the State Courts or Legal Aid Bureau.

What are the costs associated with an LPA Certificate?
Now let’s discuss the costs associated with getting an LPA certificate in Singapore. The average cost of creating an LPA with a lawyer is around $1,500-$2,500, while the registration fee through the OPG is $75-$200. The legal aid clinic at the state courts offers free services for those earning less than $1,900, while those who earn more will have to pay according to means testing. GEP offers packages that range from $399 to $1,199, while Rockwills Trustee Ltd offers their services from $588 to $1,888.
The Cheapest LPA Certificate issuer in Singapore
The cheapest option for obtaining an LPA Certificate in Singapore is through the community legal aid clinic at the state courts. They offer free services to those who earn less than $1,900. If you do not qualify for this, then the next cheapest option would be GEP, whose packages range from $399-$1,199. Their services include consultations, LPA certificate creation, and registration with the OPG.
Things to Consider When Choosing an LPA Certificate Issuer
When choosing an LPA Certificate Issuer, there are several things to consider. Firstly, consider their reputation and reliability. Secondly, choose a service that is transparent, with clear and concise terms of service. Thirdly, consider the after-sales service they offer, such as follow-up consultations, document updates, and reviews. Finally, ensure that they offer competitive and transparent pricing.
Conclusion
While there are various options for obtaining an LPA Certificate in Singapore, not all options are affordable. For most people, using the community legal aid clinic at the state courts will be the cheapest route. If this is not possible, then GEP is the next best option. Regardless of which provider you choose, remember to consider factors such as reputation, transparency of service and pricing, and after-sales service. Always prepare for the future, and obtaining an LPA Certificate is one way of doing so.
FAQs
1. What is an LPA Certificate and why is it important in Singapore?
An LPA (Lasting Power of Attorney) Certificate is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint one or more persons, known as donees, to make decisions on their behalf in the event they lose mental capacity. In Singapore, it is essential to have an LPA as it ensures that your chosen donees can manage your personal welfare, property, and financial matters without any legal hurdles.
2. How do I find the cheapest LPA Certificate issuer in Singapore?
To find the cheapest LPA Certificate issuer in Singapore, you can start by comparing the fees charged by various law firms or professional deputies. You can visit their websites, read reviews, or inquire directly about their charges. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have used LPA services in the past.
3. What are the factors to consider when choosing an LPA Certificate issuer, apart from the cost?
Apart from cost, it's crucial to consider the following factors when choosing an LPA Certificate issuer:
- Experience and expertise in handling LPA matters
- Reputation and credibility of the issuer or law firm
- Responsiveness and availability of the issuer for consultations
- Clear communication and explanation of the LPA process
4. Can I prepare my own LPA Certificate to save on costs?
Yes, you can prepare your own LPA Certificate using the forms provided by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) in Singapore. However, it is essential to ensure that the form is filled out correctly and witnessed by an accredited professional, such as a lawyer, psychiatrist, or medical practitioner. While this DIY approach may save on costs, engaging a professional issuer can help avoid errors and provide peace of mind.