Why Every 18-Year-Old Needs Essential Legal Documents
As parents prepare to send their children off to college, there is usually a long checklist to complete: dorm supplies, class schedules, meal plans, textbooks, and tuition payments.
But there is one important item that is often overlooked.
Once your child turns 18, they become a legal adult. Even if you’re paying their tuition, health insurance, car payment, and cell phone bill, you no longer automatically have the legal authority to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf if something unexpected happens.
At Robert M. Goldberg & Associates, we offer a Back-to-School Package designed specifically for young adults. It gives parents and their newly adult children peace of mind by putting essential legal documents in place before they head off to college.
Why Turning 18 Changes Everything
Many parents are surprised to learn that once their child reaches adulthood, privacy laws and state law can prevent doctors, hospitals, banks, and other institutions from sharing information or accepting decisions from parents.
Imagine receiving a phone call that your child has been in an accident while away at college. Without the proper legal documents, you may be unable to:
- Speak with their doctors about their condition.
- Make medical decisions if they are unconscious.
- Access certain financial accounts to help pay bills.
- Handle important legal or financial matters while they recover.
These situations are rare, but they happen every day. Having the right documents prepared ahead of time can make an incredibly difficult situation much easier.
What’s Included in Our Back-to-School Package?
Our Back-to-School Package focuses on the essential legal documents every young adult should have after turning 18:
- Durable Financial Power of Attorney
- Healthcare Power of Attorney
- HIPAA Authorization
- Living Will
These “ancillary documents” allow trusted individuals, usually parents, to step in if an emergency prevents the student from making decisions for themselves.
Peace of Mind for Parents and Students
Most college students are healthy, active, and excited to begin a new chapter. Estate planning probably isn’t on their mind.
That’s exactly why now is the perfect time.
Completing these documents can provide years of protection. Whether your child is attending college across Georgia or across the country, having these legal documents in place means your family is better prepared if the unexpected happens.
A Simple Step That Makes a Big Difference
Sending your child to college is a milestone worth celebrating. While you’re checking off the back-to-school list, don’t forget to prepare for the “what ifs.”
Schedule Your Back-to-School Package Today
If your son or daughter has recently turned 18 and is preparing for college, now is the ideal time to complete these essential documents.
Contact Robert M. Goldberg & Associates today to learn more about our Back-to-School Package and help your family head into the school year with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact Robert M. Goldberg & Associates today at 770-229-5729 to schedule a consultation for your back-to-school package.
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