Parents, you’ve spent 18 years protecting and guiding your child—but once they turn 18, legal adulthood changes everything. If there’s a medical emergency or financial issue, you could be locked out of critical decisions. That’s why every college-bound student needs these three essential documents: HIPAA Authorization, Medical Power of Attorney, and Durable Power of Attorney.
1. HIPAA Authorization: Access to Medical Information
A signed **HIPAA Authorization** allows healthcare providers to share medical information with designated individuals—like you, the parent. Without it, you may not be able to get details about your child’s condition in an emergency.
✅ Important Notes
– This document does *not* have to be notarized.
– Your child can choose what information can or cannot be shared (e.g., mental health, reproductive health, or substance use).
– Many colleges have their own HIPAA forms—sign those, too!
2. Medical Power of Attorney (Medical POA): Making Healthcare Decisions
A **Medical POA** allows a parent or trusted adult to make medical decisions if the student is not able to do so. Every state has different laws and forms, so ensure you have the right one for your home state *and* your child’s college state.
✅ Key Takeaways
– Sometimes called Healthcare Proxy or Advance Directive
– May include a HIPAA Release and Living Will
– Some states require witnesses or notarization
3. Durable Power of Attorney: Handling Financial & Legal Matters
A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) allows a parent or trusted adult to manage financial and legal matters if the student is incapacitated—or even just studying abroad. This document can grant access to:
✔️ Bank accounts
✔️ Tax filings
✔️ Lease agreements
✔️ Utility bills
✔️ Scholarship & financial aid matters
⚠️ Warning: This is a powerful document—your child should only assign it to someone they fully trust.
How to Get These Forms?
You **don’t** need a lawyer, but it can help ensure everything is legally sound. Many states offer downloadable forms online. Once completed:
– Sign & notarize (if required)
– Save digital copies on your phone and computer
– Ensure your child’s college has copies
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Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
Emergencies happen. Without these documents, parents can be legally shut out from critical medical and financial decisions. Get these forms signed *before* move-in day and rest easy knowing you’re covered.
💡 Pro Tip: If your child attends college in a different state, complete forms for both your home state and the college’s state.
🔑 Pro Tip Two: Check your health insurance. If your student is covered on your plan, and they can see a doctor in the state where they attend school, decline the COLLEGE INSURANCE plan and save your family some money. Please ask your insurance agent.
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