If you or someone you care about has a child who has recently turned 18 or is doing so soon, I wanted to touch base about something that often slips under the radar amidst the excitement of celebrating their transition to adulthood.

Did you know that when a child turns 18, parents and guardians lose access to their medical, financial, and academic records? It’s a significant shift that catches many off guard. However, with the right legal documents in place, you can ensure continued access and support for your child in an emergency.

Here are four essential documents to consider:

1. Durable Power of Attorney: This allows you to manage your child’s financial matters if they cannot do so themselves, ensuring you can pay bills, access bank accounts, and make important financial decisions.

2. Medical Power of Attorney: With a medical power of attorney, you can make health care decisions on your child’s behalf if they become incapacitated due to illness or injury. It allows you to avoid costly and time-consuming court proceedings in a crisis.

3. HIPAA Waiver: By signing a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) waiver, your child gives you access to their medical records and allows you to communicate with their health care providers. This ensures you’re informed and involved in their health care decisions.

4. FERPA Waiver: A Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) waiver gives you access to your child’s educational records, including grades, test results, and disciplinary actions. Colleges and universities will provide these forms to their students.

Remember, legal requirements vary by location, so it’s essential to research the specific requirements in your state and any state where your child resides or attends college.

As always, if you need clarification or assistance gathering these documents, don’t hesitate to reach out. Also, feel free to pass this information along to anyone you know who has a child approaching this milestone birthday.