When your child needs help, you are used to stepping in any time you want and having access to their medical, financial, or academic records. After all, you love your child; your job is to be there for them and make critical decisions on their behalf. No one would dream of standing in the way of that right, either. However, things change when your child turns 18. The access you once had in emergencies is suddenly lost, and that reality catches many parents off guard. This is where having the right legal documents in place is imperative.
With the proper legal documents, you can ensure continued access to your adult child’s records in an emergency and the ability to make crucial decisions. Today’s blog post highlights four critical documents you may want to explore after your child turns 18.
Four Essential Documents for Parents of Adult Children
Financial Power of Attorney
This legal document grants you, as your adult child’s agent, the ability to manage your child’s finances and act on their behalf if they cannot do so themselves. This can be useful if your adult child is sick or injured. It can also help if they are serving in the military and need someone to pay bills, access their bank account, etc. If this document is “durable,” you retain these powers even after your adult child becomes medically incapacitated and is unable to handle matters on their own.
Medical Power of Attorney
No one wants to think about their adult child facing a medical emergency. Unfortunately, these and other unfortunate events can happen to anyone, and parents will naturally want to have as much control over the situation as possible to help their child. Medical POA allows you to make healthcare decisions if your adult child cannot do so because of injury or illness. You can decide on medical treatment, tests, surgeries, transportation, etc.
HIPAA Waiver
It is crucial that your adult child has a HIPAA Waiver to accompany the Medical Power of Attorney documents. This ensures seamless communication between you and your adult child’s healthcare providers. The last thing you want is to lose the ability to talk with a doctor about the specifics of your adult child’s condition and treatment options.
FERPA Waiver
Though optional, a FERPA Waiver allows you to stay in the loop with your child’s educational records.
Call Nelson Law Group Today!!
When it comes to protecting your family’s future for years to come, it is imperative to have an estate planning attorney in your corner. If you have any questions, give our knowledgeable staff at Nelson Law Group, PC, a call. Our staff is always available.
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