August 8, 2025
Last autumn, one of our clients received a call no parent wants. Her son, a first-year student at university in another state, had been in a bicycle accident and was unconscious in hospital. When she called the emergency department for an update, the nurse hesitated. Without a signed HIPAA release or medical power of attorney, the hospital could not legally confirm anything. Not his condition, not even whether he was in surgery.
That mother had paid his tuition, taken him on campus tours, and helped him pack his bags. But once he turned 18, her legal authority ended. She could not speak with doctors, review his records, or make decisions on his behalf.
It is a situation we see more often than you might expect. Well-meaning, engaged parents assume they still have a seat at the table. Legally, they do not.
Before your child heads to university, there are a few documents every young adult should have in place. These are not complicated or expensive, but they can make all the difference in a moment that matters.
When a child turns 18, they become a legal adult. This change is more than symbolic. It affects every aspect of authority and access. Parents no longer have automatic rights to make financial or medical decisions, view academic records, or intervene in emergencies.
Even if your child is still on your insurance plan, relies on you financially, or lives at home during breaks, the law sees them as fully independent. That distinction matters, especially in situations where timing and access are critical.
Before your child leaves for university, we recommend having the following documents completed and properly stored. These documents are straightforward to create and can provide clarity and protection for both the student and the family.
This document allows your child to name someone they trust, typically a parent or guardian, to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are incapacitated.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act limits the disclosure of medical information. Without this form, medical professionals cannot legally share health information with you, even in an emergency. A signed HIPAA release ensures you can be kept informed.
A DPOA allows your child to appoint someone to manage financial or legal matters if they are unavailable or unable to act. This can be useful if your child is studying abroad, managing tuition accounts, or dealing with issues that require signature authority. Some families choose to maintain shared access to a bank account, but a Durable Power of Attorney offers a more secure and flexible way to ensure support without giving up full financial control.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Once your child turns 18 or begins postsecondary education, you no longer have an automatic right to view their grades, disciplinary records, or transcripts. A FERPA waiver allows your child to give written permission for the university to share these records with you or another designated individual. Every institution has its own process, so check with the registrar’s office before classes begin.
Completing the documents is an important step, but they are only useful if they are accessible when needed. We suggest the following:
These documents do not take away the student’s autonomy. They simply create a legal framework that allows trusted people to help when necessary.
Life changes quickly in early adulthood. If your child begins full-time work, gets married, or moves to a different state, their estate planning documents may need to be updated. A Power of Attorney created in university might no longer reflect their preferences, relationships, or living situation. Encourage your child to review these documents periodically and update them as their responsibilities grow. GHPIA can help facilitate those conversations and ensure documents remain aligned with their goals.
This is not only about legal protection. It is also about building confidence and responsibility. At GHPIA, we believe long-term planning begins with education and clarity. If there is a college student in your life, this is the kind of guidance that can reduce stress and protect peace of mind.
To go further, explore our Financial Guide for College Graduates or revisit our blog on Teaching Financial Literacy to Children. These resources offer practical tools to support young adults as they step into financial independence.
We also invite you to learn more about how GHPIA’s Financial Concierge service helps families navigate major life transitions with clarity and care.
For more on medical privacy and access rights, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
If you have questions or would like help connecting with a trusted estate planning attorney, we are happy to assist.
Get in touch to schedule a conversation. There is no cost or obligation to explore your next step.
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