When You Turn 18, Everything Changes
Once you turn 18, no one automatically has the legal authority to make medical or financial decisions for you—even in an emergency. Without the proper documents, even your parents will be unable to access critical medical, financial, or educational information or act on your behalf when time matters most. Do not wait for a crisis. These essential documents give the people you trust the legal authority to step in, get information, and help protect you when you cannot act for yourself.
Real Scenarios, Real Consequences
These situations happen every day to families who didn't know about the legal changes at age 18.
Emergency Room Visit
Your adult child has an accident. Without a HIPAA authorization and Medical POA, the hospital cannot share medical information with you or allow you to make decisions.
Financial Emergency
Your adult child is injured, hospitalized, or otherwise unable to manage their affairs. Without a Durable Power of Attorney, you may be unable to pay bills, access accounts, deal with insurance, or protect their financial interests.
Campus Services
You call the college student affairs office about medical or financial concerns for your child. Due to FERPA and HIPAA regulations, they cannot discuss anything without your child's written consent.
Banking & Administrative Tasks
You need to help with a banking issue or sign documents on their behalf. Without a Durable Power of Attorney, you have no legal authority to act.
The Parent POA Checklist
Before your young adult heads off to college, travels, or moves out, make sure they have these essential legal documents in place. It's a simple process that provides enormous peace of mind.
HIPAA Authorization
Allows access to medical records and conversations with healthcare providers
Medical Power of Attorney
Authorizes you to make healthcare decisions if they cannot
Durable Power of Attorney
Grants authority for financial and legal matters
FERPA Release
Allows access to college academic and financial records
Taking Responsibility for Your Future
These documents aren't just for your parents' peace of mind. They protect YOU by ensuring someone you trust can help when you need it most.
Traveling Abroad
Ensure someone can help if you have an emergency overseas
Living on Campus
Let trusted family handle issues while you focus on school
Health Emergencies
Make sure your wishes are followed if you can't speak for yourself