Why Parents of College-Aged Kids Need a Power of Attorney
When your child turns 18, they’re legally considered an adult—even if they still depend on you. This milestone can bring unexpected challenges for parents, especially when it comes to making medical or financial decisions. Without proper legal documents in place, you may be shut out from accessing your child’s medical records, helping with finances, or stepping in during an emergency.
At English Law Group, our Louisville estate planning attorneys regularly help parents of college-aged children prepare for this new stage of life with the right legal protections.
Why a Power of Attorney is Essential at 18
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Once your child reaches adulthood:
Medical Privacy (HIPAA): Doctors and hospitals may be unable to share information with you without written permission.
Financial Barriers: Banks and schools may not let you access tuition accounts, financial aid, or other records.
Emergency Situations: If your child is in an accident, you could face delays in making critical healthcare or financial decisions.
A Power of Attorney (POA) solves these challenges by allowing your child to designate you—or another trusted adult—to act on their behalf if needed.
Summer Travel & Temporary Caregivers
Planning a vacation? Sending your child to stay with grandparents, relatives, or a host family this summer? In these cases, a temporary power of attorney for medical decisions is just as important.
This document allows the designated caregiver to:
Make medical decisions if your child needs care.
Communicate with healthcare providers.
Act as the primary contact until you can be there in person.
It’s a simple step that can provide enormous peace of mind for parents and caregivers alike.
How English Law Group Can Help
Our team can prepare the right documents to protect your family, including:
Healthcare Powers of Attorney – so you can step in during medical emergencies.
Financial Powers of Attorney – so you can assist with school, banking, or legal matters.
Temporary Caregiver POAs – so trusted relatives can care for your children while you’re away.
With these documents in place, you’ll know your child has the support they need—even when you can’t be there.
Take the Next Step
At English Law Group, we make it simple for families to get the right legal protections for college-aged kids and caregivers. Call today to schedule a consultation.