Estate Planning for College Students: Documents Every Parent Should Have in Place

Sending your child off to college is a milestone filled with pride, excitement, and maybe even a few nerves. While most parents focus on dorm supplies, tuition payments, and class schedules, one area often overlooked by parents and college students alike is estate planning.

Once your child turns 18, they are considered an adult and therefore you no longer have automatic authority to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf. That’s why having certain estate planning documents in place for your college student is essential.

Why Estate Planning Matters for Young Adults

It’s easy to think estate planning is only for older adults or those with significant assets, but that’s not true. For college students, the goal isn’t distributing wealth – it’s about ensuring parents can step in if their child becomes sick, injured, or unable to make decisions for themselves. Without proper documents, parents may face frustrating and expensive legal hurdles in an already stressful situation.

Key Documents Every College Students Need

1. Healthcare Power of Attorney

A healthcare power of attorney (POA) allows your student to designate someone, often a parent, to make medical decisions if they can’t. This ensures that in an emergency, there’s no delay in getting the care they need.

2. HIPAA Authorization

Under federal law, once your child turns 18, doctors can’t share medical information with you without consent. A HIPAA authorization form gives you access to their medical records and updates, so you can stay informed if something happens.

3. Durable Power of Attorney

A durable financial power of attorney allows you to manage your student’s financial matters if they’re unable to. This could include paying bills, managing bank accounts, or even handling student loans.

4. Living Will or Advance Directive

A living will outlines your student’s wishes regarding end-of-life medical care. While this may feel difficult to discuss, it provides clarity and peace of mind for both parents and children in worst-case scenarios.

5. Last Will and Testament

Even if your student has limited assets, a simple will ensures their belongings – like a car, savings account, or digital assets – are distributed according to their wishes.

Giving Your College Students Peace of Mind

Having these documents in place not only protects your student but also gives parents confidence that they can act quickly and effectively in an emergency. These aren’t just legal papers; they’re practical tools that safeguard your child’s health, finances, and overall well-being during a pivotal stage of life.

Protect Your College Student’s Future with Gary Crews Law

Preparing for college means more than buying textbooks and setting up dorm rooms – it’s about ensuring your student is legally protected, too. At Gary Crews Law, we help families put the right estate planning documents in place for college students, giving both parents and students peace of mind. Contact our team today to start the process and protect your child’s future as the school year begins.