Embarking on the journey of registering a Power of Attorney (POA) with Nationwide can feel like a significant step, but it's a crucial one for ensuring someone you trust can manage your financial affairs if you're ever unable to. Whether you're setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for yourself or acting as an attorney for someone else, Nationwide aims to make the process as straightforward as possible. Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you navigate this important procedure.
Understanding the Importance of a Power of Attorney with Nationwide
Before we get into the "how-to," let's briefly touch upon why this is so important. A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows a person (the "donor") to appoint one or more people (the "attorney" or "attorneys") to make decisions on their behalf. This could be about their money and property, or their health and welfare.
For Nationwide, registering a POA means they officially recognize your authority (as an attorney) to manage the donor's accounts. This ensures that in times of need, financial matters can be handled smoothly, without unnecessary delays or legal hurdles. It provides peace of mind for both the donor and their loved ones.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Begin This Important Process? Let's Find Out!
This first step is all about getting your ducks in a row and understanding the prerequisites. It's crucial to have everything ready to avoid delays.
1.1 Confirm the Type of Power of Attorney You Have
Nationwide primarily deals with:
- Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): This is the most common type and allows decisions to be made even if the donor loses mental capacity. It must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) in England and Wales (or equivalent bodies in Scotland/Northern Ireland) before you can register it with Nationwide. If you have an LPA, ensure it bears the official OPG stamp or you have an OPG access code.
- Ordinary Power of Attorney (OPA) / General Power of Attorney (GPA): This type of POA is usually for a specific period or purpose and becomes invalid if the donor loses mental capacity. These generally don't need OPG registration.
If you have a Lasting Power of Attorney, have you confirmed it's registered with the OPG? This is a non-negotiable first step!
1.2 Gather the Necessary Documents
Having these readily available will significantly speed up the process. You will need:
- The Original Power of Attorney Document: Nationwide will need to see the original legal document. If you cannot provide the original, a copy certified by a professional (like a solicitor) may be accepted.
- Proof of ID and Address for the Attorney(s): If you (the attorney) are not already a Nationwide member, you'll need to provide valid and unexpired proof of identity (e.g., passport, driving license) and proof of your current address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, dated within the last 3 months).
- Nationwide Account Details: Have the account numbers and sort codes for the donor's Nationwide accounts you wish to manage.
- Nationwide Power of Attorney Registration Form (IF18): This form is specifically designed for registering a Power of Attorney with Nationwide. You can usually download it from the Nationwide website or pick one up at a branch.
- Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Access Code (for LPAs): If you're registering an LPA, having the OPG access code will allow Nationwide to verify the document online, potentially saving time.
Step 2: Completing the Nationwide Registration Form (IF18)
This form is your primary tool for informing Nationwide about the POA and your role as an attorney. Accuracy and clarity are paramount.
2.1 Download or Obtain the Form
Navigate to the "Help & Support" or "Third-Party Access" section on the Nationwide website to find the "Registration of Power of Attorney Form (IF18)." Alternatively, visit your local Nationwide branch to request a physical copy.
2.2 Fill Out the Form Carefully
- Use BLOCK CAPITALS and black ink. This helps with electronic scanning and processing.
- Do NOT cross out sections you don't need. Simply leave them blank if they don't apply.
- Donor's Details: You'll need to provide the full name, address, date of birth, and Nationwide account details of the person who granted the Power of Attorney (the donor).
- Attorney's Details: Provide your full name, address, date of birth, and contact information. If there are multiple attorneys, ensure all their details are accurately provided.
- Jointly vs. Jointly and Severally: This is a critical section for multiple attorneys.
- Jointly (J): All attorneys must make decisions together. If you choose this, note that Nationwide typically states that jointly acting attorneys cannot have a card, chequebook, or use online banking.
- Jointly and Severally (S): Attorneys can make decisions on their own or together. This offers more flexibility and is generally preferred if you want individual access to services like debit cards or online banking.
- Account Access Options: The form will allow you to specify what access you require, such as:
- Requesting a debit card for the donor's account (this may replace the donor's card).
- Requesting Internet Bank access.
- Choosing who receives statements (at least one attorney usually needs to).
- Requesting a chequebook.
- Be mindful of any restrictions outlined in the Power of Attorney document itself when selecting these options.
- Declarations and Signatures: Both the donor (if they still have capacity) and the attorney(s) will need to sign the form.
Step 3: Submitting Your Power of Attorney to Nationwide
Once the form is meticulously completed and all supporting documents are gathered, it's time to submit them. You have two primary options:
3.1 Registering In Branch (Recommended for First-Time Registration)
- Visit Your Local Nationwide Branch: This is often the easiest and quickest way to register, especially for the initial setup. A branch advisor can check your documents on the spot and answer any immediate questions.
- Bring All Documents: Take the original Power of Attorney document, your proof of ID and address, and the completed Nationwide registration form.
- Verification: The branch staff will verify your identity and the Power of Attorney document. If it's an LPA, they may use the OPG access code to verify it online.
- Copies: They will take copies of your documents and return the originals to you.
3.2 Registering By Post
- Prepare Your Package: Ensure your completed form, a certified copy (or the original, though it will be returned later) of the Power of Attorney, and certified copies of your ID and address proof are securely packaged.
- Send by Recorded Delivery: It's highly advisable to send sensitive documents like these via recorded or special delivery to ensure they reach Nationwide safely and you have proof of postage.
- Postal Address: Send your package to the relevant Nationwide address for Power of Attorney registrations. This address will typically be provided on the IF18 form itself or can be found on the Nationwide website.
Step 4: Nationwide's Processing and Confirmation
After submission, there's a waiting period while Nationwide processes your request.
4.1 Processing Time
Nationwide states that it can take up to 11 working days to register someone as an attorney. This allows them time to review the documents, verify the POA (especially if it's an LPA and they need to check with the OPG), and update their systems.
4.2 Return of Documents
Any original documents you submitted (like the Power of Attorney itself) will be returned to you once the registration is complete.
4.3 Confirmation of Registration
Nationwide will send confirmation of the successful registration by post. This letter will confirm that you are now registered as an attorney on the specified accounts. Any requested items, like new debit cards or chequebooks, will be sent separately and may take an additional 5 working days to arrive.
Step 5: Accessing and Managing Accounts as an Attorney
Once registered, you can begin managing the donor's Nationwide accounts according to the powers granted in the POA.
5.1 In Branch Access
You can visit any Nationwide branch to:
- Make payments and transfers.
- Manage regular payments (e.g., standing orders, direct debits).
- Request duplicate statements.
5.2 Online Access (Internet Bank)
If you requested and were granted Internet Bank access:
- You will be able to log in to the donor's accounts.
- You can view transactions, make payments and transfers.
- Important Note: For Internet Bank access, Nationwide typically requires the attorney to have no restrictions in the POA document and to be acting severally (able to make decisions alone). You may also need to have your own Nationwide account and a UK address and be able to receive text messages for security purposes.
5.3 Debit Card/Cash Machine Access
If you requested a debit card for the donor's account:
- You can use it to make withdrawals at ATMs and make purchases online or in shops, as long as there are no restrictions in the POA document.
5.4 Telephone Access
You can call Nationwide to ask questions about the accounts you're managing, but typically you cannot make transactions over the phone.
Step 6: Ongoing Responsibilities and Best Practices
Being an attorney is a significant responsibility. Here are some key considerations:
6.1 Always Act in the Donor's Best Interests
This is the fundamental principle of acting as an attorney. All decisions you make must be for the benefit of the donor, not yourself.
6.2 Keep Accurate Records
Maintain detailed records of all transactions, payments, and decisions made on behalf of the donor. This is crucial for accountability and can be required if ever reviewed.
6.3 Understand Limitations
Be aware of any specific limitations or instructions within the Power of Attorney document itself. For example, some POAs may restrict certain types of investments or large withdrawals.
6.4 Notify Nationwide of Any Changes
If there are any changes to the Power of Attorney (e.g., revocation, appointment of new attorneys) or the donor's circumstances, inform Nationwide promptly.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about managing a Power of Attorney with Nationwide, all starting with "How to":
How to check the status of my Power of Attorney registration with Nationwide?
You can usually check the status by calling Nationwide's customer service or by enquiring at your local branch, quoting the donor's account details and your attorney information.
How to request a debit card for the donor's account after initial registration?
You can request a debit card by completing the relevant section on the Nationwide "Correspondence and Token Amendments - Power of Attorney (POA)" form (SF251) or by discussing it with a branch advisor.
How to gain Internet Bank access as an attorney if I didn't request it initially?
You'll need to complete the specific section for Internet Bank access on the Nationwide "Registration of Power of Attorney Form (IF18)" or the "Correspondence and Token Amendments" form (SF251) and meet Nationwide's criteria (e.g., acting severally, having your own Nationwide account).
How to make a payment or transfer from the donor's account online?
Once Internet Bank access is granted, log in using your attorney credentials. You should then be able to view the donor's accounts and initiate payments and transfers as you would with a regular online banking account.
How to add another attorney to an existing Power of Attorney with Nationwide?
If the Power of Attorney document itself allows for the addition of attorneys, you would typically need a new or amended POA document reflecting this change, which then needs to be registered with the OPG (if an LPA) and subsequently with Nationwide. Contact Nationwide for the specific form, likely the "Addition of an Attorney" form.
How to change the correspondence address for the donor's accounts?
This can often be done via the Nationwide "Correspondence and Token Amendments - Power of Attorney (POA)" form (SF251), allowing you to specify where statements and other communications should be sent.
How to remove a Power of Attorney from Nationwide's records?
If the Power of Attorney is being revoked or is no longer needed, you would typically need a formal deed of revocation. This document then needs to be provided to Nationwide, who will update their records. It's advisable to seek legal advice on revocation.
How to get a certified copy of a Power of Attorney document?
You can obtain a certified copy from a solicitor, a notary public, or other professionals as specified by the Office of the Public Guardian or Nationwide. They will attest that the copy is a true likeness of the original.
How to deal with a joint attorney situation where one attorney is unresponsive?
If the POA states "jointly" (meaning all attorneys must act together), you may face difficulties. If it states "jointly and severally," you can generally act independently. For disputes or non-cooperation, you may need to contact the Office of the Public Guardian (for LPAs) or seek legal advice.
How to manage a donor's mortgage payments or property sale with Nationwide as an attorney?
Once registered, you can manage these financial aspects as long as the Power of Attorney document explicitly grants you the authority to do so. You would typically contact Nationwide's mortgage department or relevant team directly to discuss these specific transactions.
