Off to College? Essential Legal Documents Your Child Needs When Turning 18

As your child reaches adulthood, your role as a parent in providing support during emergencies shifts from an obligation to a privilege — one that requires your child’s written (or sometimes oral) consent. For instance, if your young adult wants you to make medical decisions on their behalf in case of a serious illness or injury, it’s crucial to have a basic but essential estate planning document in place: a Medical Power of Attorney. The specific form and procedural requirements for this legal document vary by state, so it’s important to ensure that the document is in place based on where your child resides.

Another critical document to discuss with your young adult is a Financial Power of Attorney. In today’s world, it’s common for parents to continue supporting their children financially through their young adulthood, covering expenses like health and auto insurance, student loans, car payments, and even taxes. However, if your child studies abroad or becomes incapacitated and is unable to provide consent, having a Financial Power of Attorney allows you to manage their financial affairs and avoid the costly and time-consuming alternative - court appointment as a guardian or conservator. Like the Medical Power of Attorney, the specific requirements for this financial power of attorney also depend on the state where your child is domiciled

If your adult child resides in Colorado or Utah and needs assistance with their estate planning, feel free to reach out. A member of our estate planning team will be happy to discuss the options available.

Written by Annie Murphy