# How to apply to be a deputy (Court of Protection)

> How-to · Last reviewed 22 August 2026

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## Quick answer

If there is no Lasting Power of Attorney and the person already lacks capacity, apply to the Court of Protection. Pay £432 per deputyship type. Use a DWP appointee instead if you only need to manage benefits.

Scotland uses guardianship. Northern Ireland uses a controller. This is not a court form.

## Steps

### 1. Check an LPA or EPA does not already exist

Search the OPG register. If there is a valid attorney, you usually cannot also be a deputy. Make an LPA instead if they still have capacity: [Lasting Power of Attorney](/family-life/lasting-power-of-attorney/).

Source: https://www.gov.uk/find-someones-attorney-deputy-or-guardian

### 2. Use an appointee if you only need benefits

A DWP appointee can receive PIP, Universal Credit or Pension Credit without a Court of Protection order.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/become-appointee

### 3. Apply online or on paper

Follow https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy. Property and financial affairs and personal welfare are separate applications and separate £432 fees. Budget £266 if a hearing is listed.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy

### 4. After the order

Set up any security bond the court requires. Pay the £100 assessment fee if you are a new deputy. File the annual OPG deputy report. Fees: https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy/fees

Source: https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy/fees

## Common pitfalls

- Acting on bank accounts before the order arrives
- Applying from Scotland or Northern Ireland to the Court of Protection
- Paying twice because you needed both deputy types and did not budget for it

## Frequently asked questions

### Can fees be reduced?

Yes if the person (property deputyship) or you (welfare deputyship) get certain benefits or have income under £12,000. Use the help-with-fees form on GOV.UK.

## Sources

- [GOV.UK — Become a deputy](https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy)
- [GOV.UK — Deputy fees](https://www.gov.uk/become-deputy/fees)

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