A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint trusted individuals, known as donees, to make decisions on your behalf should you lose mental capacity. In Singapore, the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) provides two types of forms for creating an LPA: LPA Form 1 and LPA Form 2. While both forms serve the same purpose, they differ in terms of complexity and the level of customization they offer.

Here’s a detailed explanation of the differences between LPA Form 1 and LPA Form 2, helping you understand which is most suitable for your needs.

What is an LPA?

An LPA allows individuals to safeguard their future by designating trusted donees to make decisions regarding their personal welfare and property and affairs if they lose mental capacity. It ensures that your wishes are respected and provides clarity for your loved ones during challenging times.

LPA Form 1: For Most Individuals

LPA Form 1 is designed for the majority of individuals who wish to make an LPA. It provides a standardized template that covers general powers for donees to make decisions about personal welfare and property and affairs. This form is straightforward and suitable for most people’s needs.

Key Features of LPA Form 1:

General Powers: Grants donees broad authority to manage personal and financial matters.
Simplified Format: Includes pre-defined clauses that are commonly applicable, making it easy to complete.
Quick and Cost-Effective: The streamlined nature of Form 1 makes it faster to process and less costly to draft.

When to Use LPA Form 1:

If you have straightforward requirements for your donees.
If you are comfortable with granting general decision-making powers without detailed customization.
If you want a faster and simpler process.

LPA Form 2: For Customization and Complex Needs

LPA Form 2 is designed for individuals who have specific instructions or unique circumstances that require a more customized approach. Unlike Form 1, which uses pre-defined clauses, Form 2 allows you to tailor the powers granted to your donees.

Key Features of LPA Form 2:

Customizable Powers: Allows you to include detailed and specific instructions for your donees.
Legal Assistance Required: Requires a lawyer to draft the customized terms and ensure compliance with the Mental Capacity Act.
More Complex Process: The additional customization means that Form 2 takes longer to complete and involves higher costs.

When to Use LPA Form 2:

If you have complex family or financial arrangements.
If you have more than three donees.
If you want to limit or specify the donees’ authority in certain areas.
If you have more than one property that the donees cannot sell.
If you need to include unique clauses that are not covered in Form 1.

Choosing Between LPA Form 1 and LPA Form 2

Here’s a comparison to help you decide which form suits your needs:


Feature	LPA Form 2	LPA Form 3
Purpose	General powers for most individuals	Customization for unique circumstances
Level of Customization	Limited	High
Ease of Use	Simplified and user-friendly	Complex, requires legal assistance
Cost	Lower	Higher due to legal drafting fees
Processing Time	Faster	Longer

Why Is It Important to Choose the Right LPA Form?

Selecting the appropriate form is crucial to ensuring your Lasting Power of Attorney in Singapore aligns with your specific needs. Using the wrong form could result in limitations that may not adequately address your personal or financial concerns.

Key Considerations:

Assess your family dynamics and financial complexity.
Consult with an experienced lawyer if you’re unsure about which form to use.
Keep in mind that both forms require certification by an accredited professional, such as a lawyer, medical practitioner, or psychiatrist.

How to Make an LPA in Singapore

Access the Forms: Download LPA Form 1 or LPA Form 2 from the Office of the Public Guardian Online (OPGO). LPA Form 2 must be filled in by a lawyer.
Complete the Form: Fill in the required details, including your donees and the powers you wish to grant them.
Engage a Certificate Issuer: Have the LPA certified by a qualified professional.
Submit the Application: Submit your LPA through the OPGO system. For LPA Form 1, the application fee is currently waived for Singapore citizens until March 31, 2026.

Simplify Your Estate Planning with the Right LPA Form

Choosing between LPA Form 1 and LPA Form 2 depends on your personal circumstances and the level of control you wish to grant to your donees. While Form 1 suits most individuals with straightforward needs, Form 2 is ideal for those requiring specific and customized arrangements.At YY Lee & Associates LLC, we can guide you through the process of creating an LPA tailored to your needs, ensuring your future is secure. Contact us at 8780-2499 for expert advice on making a Lasting Power of Attorney in Singapore.