Legally, your child is now an adult. That means you no longer have automatic rights to:
- Access their medical records
- Speak with their doctors
- Handle their banking or financial matters
- Talk to their college or university about academic or disciplinary issues
Even if they’re still on your health insurance, even if you’re paying for college—you can be shut out.
Must-Have Legal Documents for College-Bound Students
Here are the two essential legal documents every parent should have in place before their child leaves for college:
1. Healthcare Power of Attorney
This allows your child to name you (or someone they trust) to:
- Make medical decisions if they are unable to
- Speak to doctors and access medical records (HIPAA compliant)
Imagine your child is unconscious in a hospital after an accident. Without this document, the hospital may not be able to speak with you.
2. Financial Power of Attorney
This gives you authority to:
- Access their bank accounts (if needed)
- Handle tuition or financial aid matters
- Pay bills or manage finances while they are away
This can be vital if your child is studying abroad, becomes incapacitated, or simply needs help managing adult responsibilities.
Optional but Helpful Documents
Depending on your situation, you might also consider:
- FERPA Waiver – Gives you access to your child’s academic records at their college
- HIPAA Authorization Form – Ensures you can speak to medical professionals in non-emergency situations
Last year, a client called me in a panic. Her 19-year-old daughter had been rushed to the hospital out of state. Because she hadn’t signed a healthcare power of attorney, her mom couldn’t get any updates from the hospital. It was a wake-up call for many of her friends, too.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
It may seem like just one more thing on your college prep checklist, but these documents can make all the difference in an emergency.
At Sabrina Winters Law, we make this process quick, affordable, and stress-free. You and your child will leave knowing you’re prepared for whatever lies ahead.
Schedule Your Strategy Session Today
Visit sabrinawinterslaw.com to self-schedule your session, join our newsletter, and get peace of mind before the fall semester begins.
Plan today—because tomorrow is not promised.