Legal documents for young adults

As high school graduations wrap up and college move-in lists begin, many families are focused on dorm supplies, meal plans, and class schedules. However, June is also the ideal time to ensure your young adult has essential legal documents in place before life gets even busier. Once your child turns 18, they are legally an adult, which means parents no longer automatically have access to medical or financial information.

Don’t be left in the dark!

This often surprises families. If your college student becomes sick, is hospitalized, or is involved in an accident while away at school, healthcare providers may not be able to share medical information with you without proper authorization. That is why a Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare, including a HIPAA release, is so important. This document allows your child to designate a trusted person, often a parent, to receive medical information and make healthcare decisions if they are unable to communicate their wishes.

A Durable Financial Power of Attorney is equally important. This document authorizes a trusted person to handle financial matters, including banking, tuition payments, legal documents, and account access, if your child cannot manage those responsibilities. Keeping these documents on file with banks and readily available can significantly reduce stress during an emergency.

Peace of mind for parents

While no parent wants to imagine an emergency involving their child, planning provides peace of mind for both parents and students. Estate planning is not just for older adults. Every adult over 18 should have these foundational documents in place before heading off to college and independence. Hurley Elder Care Law is happy to help families prepare for this important transition. Call us today at 404-843-0121 to help you check one more item off your college ‘to-do’ list.