College Students: POA, HIPAA, Documents Every Parent Should Know About
There is a moment every parent experiences that feels both exciting and a little strange.
Your child turns 18.
You celebrate the milestone.
You take pictures.
You tell them how proud you are.
But legally, something important changes: Your child is now an adult. And that means parents may no longer automatically have the ability to access medical information or make certain decisions on their behalf.
Becoming an Adult Comes With New Responsibilities
Most parents spend years preparing their children for adulthood. They teach them how to drive. They help them prepare for college. They remind them to eat something besides snacks. But one important part of adulthood is often overlooked: Legal planning.
Once a child turns 18, parents should consider discussing documents that allow their child to choose who can help them if needed.
A Medical Power of Attorney allows a person to choose someone they trust to make healthcare decisions if they cannot make those decisions themselves. For a young adult, that person is often a parent. But the important part is that the decision belongs to the child. It is their choice.
Healthcare privacy rules protect personal medical information. A HIPAA Authorization allows an adult child to give permission for specific people to receive medical information. This can be especially important if parents need updates during a medical situation.
A Financial Power of Attorney can allow someone trusted to assist with financial matters if needed. For a college student, this can be helpful if an unexpected situation makes it difficult for them to manage certain responsibilities.
Planning Is Part of Independence
Some young adults may hear "estate planning" and think it means their parents are trying to control things. The opposite is true. Good planning gives young adults control.
It allows them to decide:
Who do I trust?
Who should help me?
What do I want my family to know?
Preparing for adulthood is not just about independence. It is also about knowing when and how to ask for help. Your child growing up is a big milestone. Helping them prepare is one more way you show them you care.
Need help? Here's how to reach us:
We are licensed in Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Nebraska, and Florida. We're happy to meet virtually during the normal 9 to 5 or in the evening or on weekends, so you don't have to take off work or get a babysitter.
Click here to schedule a free consultation or reach out to Chad Fuss, Esq.
directly at 503-908-5457 Chad@AffordableEstatePNW.com
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