For Parents with Children Turning 18
For Parents
Your child is about to graduate from high school and is starting to plan for the future. Congratulations! However, if your child is 18 or older, you as a parent have very few legal rights over them. We recommend that you hand your phone or computer to your new young adult now and have them read the rest of this page about young adult estate planning.
For Young Adults
If you’re a young adult about to start planning for the future, there are several documents that are critical to ensure you are protected and covered in the event of an emergency situation. Being prepared can give you and your parent peace of mind while you are away from home.
What Estate Planning Documents Do Young Adults Need?
While young adults often don’t have many assets they need to plan for this this time, there are other estate planning documents you should include in your estate plan in case of incapacity. Young Adult estate planning documents should include:
- Durable power of attorney. Your DPOA can manage your finances and withdraw you from classes if you become incapacitated.
- Living will and advance directives. You can inform your family about treatment you wish to receive if you become incapacitated and require advanced medical care.
- HIPPA authorization form. This form allows specified family members to access your medical records.
Should A Young Adult Name A Power Of Attorney?
The primary issue many young adults face is that their parents are no longer legally able to request medical records or make decisions about medical treatment for their children once they turn 18. If the young adult suffers severe injuries in a car accident, overdoses on or has a bad reaction to a drug, or develops a sudden medical condition, their parents are often unable to get involved in their sick child’s care.
You must name your parent or another trusted person as a durable power of attorney if you want their power to remain effective during your incapacitation (in case you suddenly can’t make or communicate your own decisions).
How Young Adults Can Prepare Estate Planning Documents for Campus Medical Records?
Many students come to campus for their first day with their estate planning documents ready. If you create advance directives and a HIPAA authorization form, ask your college if you can add your documents to your young adult patient information at the campus.
Financial Reasons Young Adults Need an Estate Plan
Many young adults carry student loans, credit card debt, or other financial obligations. In the event of their death, their outstanding debts do not simply disappear. Without an estate plan, their loved ones may be burdened with the responsibility of managing and repaying these debts. By having an estate plan in place, a young adult can designate how their debts should be settled, ensuring that their assets are used appropriately and minimizing the financial impact on their family.
Medical Reasons Young Adults Need an Estate Plan
A comprehensive estate plan includes documents like a healthcare power of attorney or a healthcare proxy. These legal instruments empower a young adult to appoint a trusted person to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated or unable to communicate their wishes. This ensures that medical decisions align with their values, preferences, and beliefs, giving them control over their healthcare even if they are unable to voice their choices
Contact Us at Jordan & White, LLC in Danvers.