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Deputyship - FAQ's

What are the costs involved in applying to be a deputy for property and affairs?

As deputyship is a service authorised by the court, there are a number of costs involved in the process. It is for this reason that prospective deputies must be willing to demonstrate a certain level of commitment and competence.

Applying to become a deputy

The initial deputyship application involves a fee of £421, sent alongside the application forms. If applying to become both types of deputies (property & finance, and welfare), this fee must be paid twice.

If the court decides a hearing is necessary following this, there is an additional cost of £259 – however, this rarely happens. Hearings will usually follow if an individual involved in the application raised a concern or objection.

The Deputyship Bond

Deputies are also typically required to set up a security bond in order to protect the vulnerable person’s finances. The amount paid for a security bond is relative to the individual’s estate, and further, how much of their estate the deputy controls.

There are certain exceptions to this – for example, if the person’s assets are too low for a security bond to be necessary. However, in all other circumstances, the court requires deputies to set one up either through their dedicated service, or another authorised bond provider.

Oversight and regulation

In terms of the external oversight relative to the role, the Office for The Public Guardian (OPG) charges an annual supervision fee. The OPG also charges an initial assessment fee of £100 for new deputies. There are two levels of supervision that the OPG undertakes – general, and minimal.

In their first year of appointment, all deputies are put under general supervision as they settle into the role. The cost for this level is £320 per year. After the first year, some deputies may switch to minimal supervision, costing just £35 annually. Typically, this level is primarily applicable to property and affairs deputies managing less than £21,000.

Reductions and exemptions

Those representing clients who have a total income below £12,000 may be eligible to apply for a reduction of fees, done so through the form OPG120.

Moreover, clients receiving any means-tested benefits are eligible to a full exemption, meaning no costs apply throughout the process.

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Appointeeship, Deputyship, Power of Attorney, Money Management, Welfare Benefits

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