As a parent, you’ve spent 18 years guiding, protecting, and making critical decisions for your child. From pediatric appointments to late-night ER visits, you’ve always been in the loop. But when your child turns 18 and heads off to college, everything changes—at least in the eyes of the law.

Once your child reaches legal adulthood at 18, you no longer have the automatic right to access their medical records, be informed of their condition, or make decisions on their behalf in a medical emergency. This can come as a surprise to many parents, especially when a crisis strikes and your young adult is hundreds of miles from home.

Why This Matters for College-Bound Kids

Sending your child off to college is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with new legal realities. Whether your young adult is living on campus, renting an apartment, or studying abroad, it’s essential to consider how you’ll stay informed and involved in the event of a medical emergency.

Medical professionals must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protects patient privacy and restricts access to medical information—even for parents. Without the right legal documents in place, doctors may be unable to discuss your child’s condition or treatment with you, even in life-threatening situations.

Three Essential Legal Documents for College Students

To avoid unnecessary stress and delays during a medical crisis, make sure your college-bound young adult signs these three legal documents before they head off to school:

1. HIPAA Authorization

Think of this as a medical “permission slip.” This form allows your young adult to name specific people—such as you or another trusted adult—who can access their medical information. It can be customized to withhold sensitive information, such as mental health or reproductive care, if your child desires.

2. Medical Power of Attorney

This document designates someone to make medical decisions on your child’s behalf if they are unable to do so themselves. As a parent, this enables you to step in if your child becomes seriously ill or injured. Because laws vary by state, it’s important to consult with an attorney to ensure the form meets legal requirements both where you live and where your child attends college.

3. Durable Financial Power of Attorney

If your young adult is incapacitated, this form allows you or another trusted adult to manage their financial matters—such as paying rent, handling tuition payments, or accessing bank accounts. It’s a powerful tool and should only be granted to someone your child trusts completely.

Prepare Before Move-In Day

The transition from high school to college happens fast. As you shop for dorm essentials and plan the move-in day checklist, don’t overlook these legal essentials. By proactively putting these documents in place, your family can avoid added turmoil during an already stressful time.

We encourage you to include your young adult in the planning process—empowering them with an understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities as they step into adulthood.

To protect your adult children we are offering a $300 Comprehensive Incapacity Plan (valued at $1,000) for your adult child, plus 10% off Estate Planning Services for you!

Good through August 31, 2025

To get started, Schedule a 15-minute introduction call, and make sure your college-bound child is protected, no matter how far they roam.

This article is a service of Law Office of Meghan Stokes, a Personal Family Lawyer®. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.