When high school and college seniors walk across the stage, they're crossing a major legal threshold: they're becoming adults. They may still feel like "your kids," but the law sees them differently the moment they turn 18. Parents no longer have automatic access to their medical records or the right to make financial decisions for them in an emergency.
If your child is heading off to college, starting a new job, or traveling, a simple Power of Attorney and Health Care Surrogate are the most important "graduation gifts" you can give. If they're sidelined by an accident or illness, you can step in right away without petitioning a court for guardianship.
Key documents for young adults
- Health Care Surrogate
- HIPAA Authorization
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Simple Will (especially if they own property)
Offer to gift these documents to your children or grandchildren. It's an act of love and protection. A few signatures now can save enormous stress later.