Three Legal Documents Every College Student Needs Before Leaving Home

For many new graduates, this is the most exciting time of their life! Their heading off to college thinking about new friends and fun adventures. As parents, you’re probably thinking about move-in dates, course schedules and packing checklists. However, there’s one more thing you need to do before leave. When your new graduate turns 18, you, as the parent, no longer automatically have access to their medical and financial records. In an emergency, you may be left out of key decisions. Let’s avoid this happening by making sure your new college student has these three documents:

HIPAA Authorization

A HIPAA Authorization form permits healthcare providers and doctors to release medical information to you. Without this form, doctors and nurses may not be allowed to discuss your child with you, regardless of whether you’re the parent.


Medical Power of Attorney

A medical Power of Attorney allows your child to appoint someone to make medical decisions for them if they become incapacitated or cannot respond for themselves. Your child has the power to choose who they are comfortable with.

Durable Power of Attorney

A Durable Power of Attorney will help ensure you can manage things like bank accounts, bills or signing important documents on their behalf.

It may seem simple but these are highly important documents. They will give both you and your new grad peace of mind.

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