# What is a deputyship in England and Wales?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 August 2026

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## In short

A deputy is someone the Court of Protection appoints to make decisions for a person who already lacks mental capacity and has no Lasting Power of Attorney. The 2026 application fee is £432 per type, with yearly OPG supervision after that. If you only need to manage benefits, become a DWP appointee instead.

You cannot make an LPA once capacity is lost. Deputyship is slower and dearer than registering an LPA in advance. Property and affairs deputies usually need a security bond and must send an annual report to the Office of the Public Guardian. Official: https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy

Scotland uses guardianship. Northern Ireland uses a controller. Guide: [deputyship](/family-life/deputyship-court-of-protection/). Make an LPA while you still can: [Lasting Power of Attorney](/family-life/lasting-power-of-attorney/).

## Related

- [Deputyship guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/deputyship-court-of-protection/)
- [Lasting Power of Attorney](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/lasting-power-of-attorney/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/become-deputy

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.