As your child or grandchild prepares to leave home for college, you’re likely focused on dorm checklists, class schedules, and goodbyes. But one of the most important steps you can take isn’t found on any college prep list—it’s updating your estate plan and making sure your young adult has essential legal documents in place.
At Marshall Law, we often work with families in The Villages and throughout Central Florida to ensure their estate planning covers not just wills and trusts, but also the lesser-known documents that become critical the moment a child turns 18.
Turning 18: A Legal Milestone
When a child turns 18, they become a legal adult. That means parents and grandparents no longer have automatic access to their medical, financial, or academic records—even if you’re still paying the bills. Without proper legal authorizations, your ability to help in an emergency could be severely limited.
Before your college student walks out the door, consider putting these key documents in place:
1. Durable Power of Attorney: Keep Financial Access
A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to manage your young adult’s financial matters if they are incapacitated or unavailable. This includes paying bills, managing bank accounts, or handling leases and tuition matters. Especially for students heading out of state, this document offers vital peace of mind.
2. Designation of Healthcare Surrogate & Living Will: Prepare for Health Emergencies
If your child is in an accident or becomes ill, a Designation of Healthcare Surrogate and Living Will lets you make healthcare decisions on their behalf. Without it, hospitals may not allow you to weigh in, even in critical situations.
3. HIPAA Authorization: Stay Informed About Their Health
Federal privacy laws (HIPAA) prevent medical providers from sharing information with you unless your child has signed a HIPAA Authorization. This simple document allows you to speak with doctors and stay informed about treatments or hospitalizations.
4. FERPA Waiver: Regain Access to Academic Records
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), you’ll lose access to your student’s academic records once they turn 18. With a FERPA waiver, your child can authorize you to see grades, transcripts, or disciplinary information—critical if you’re helping guide their educational journey.
Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Elderly
Many families in The Villages, Wildwood, and surrounding Central Florida communities think estate planning is only for retirees. But in reality, it’s a life-stage necessity. Whether you’re a parent sending a child off to college or a grandparent helping out with tuition, ensuring proper legal protections are in place is a smart, loving step.
🎓 Before They Go, Be Legally Ready
If your child or grandchild is heading to college this fall, now is the time to act. At Marshall Law, our estate planning team can help you quickly and affordably prepare these critical documents. Give yourself the confidence of knowing you’re still able to step in and support them—legally and practically—when it matters most.
📞 Call us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help families across The Villages and Central Florida plan with peace of mind.