The short answer:
Peace of Mind for Parents. Empowerment for Young Adults.
As your child heads off to college, you’re likely checking off lists: dorm essentials, class schedules, student ID, maybe even a financial aid package. But there’s one more important checklist to complete – one that’s often overlooked until it’s too late: an estate plan.
You may think estate planning is something reserved for retirees or wealthy families, but every adult, including your 18-year-old college student, should have a few basic legal documents in place. Once your child turns 18, you no longer have the automatic right to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf, even in an emergency.
At Shepherd Elder Law Group, we help families take this important step with clarity, compassion, and efficiency. Here’s why it matters and what documents to include.
Why Estate Planning Matters at 18
At age 18, your child is now legally considered an adult. This means:
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You cannot access their medical records without consent (due to HIPAA laws).
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You cannot speak with doctors or make medical decisions if they become incapacitated.
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You cannot access bank accounts, tuition accounts, or handle financial issues on their behalf without legal authority.
Estate planning ensures that you—and anyone your child trusts—can step in and help when needed, especially in emergencies.
Key Documents to Put in Place
Here are four essential documents we recommend for every college-bound student:
1. Durable Power of Attorney
This allows your child to appoint a parent or trusted adult to manage financial affairs, pay bills, sign tax returns, or handle tuition matters if they’re unavailable or incapacitated.
2. Health Care Power of Attorney
Also called a Medical Power of Attorney, this document allows your child to name someone (usually a parent) to make health care decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so.
3. HIPAA Authorization
This form gives you legal permission to access your child’s medical records or communicate with doctors and hospitals about their condition and care.
4. Living Will / Advance Health Care Directive
This outlines your child’s preferences for end-of-life care, including whether they want life-sustaining treatment in extreme situations. While difficult to think about, it can provide essential guidance and peace of mind.
A Simple Step That Protects the Whole Family
College is an exciting and transformative time. Ensuring your young adult has a basic estate plan in place protects not only their wellbeing but your ability to support them when it matters most. It’s an empowering step for them, and a wise one for you.
At Shepherd Elder Law Group, we make the process easy and personal. Whether you’re preparing one child for freshman year or helping multiple young adults plan ahead, we’re here to help you protect what matters most.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your college student has the tools they need—both for campus and for life.
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