It’s late August. The dorm room is decorated, the car is packed, and the emotions are running high.
Whether you’ve just hugged your college freshman goodbye or are helping them move in this weekend, we know how huge this moment is—for both of you.
But before you get too far into the back-to-school rush, there’s one conversation most families are still overlooking. And skipping it could leave you powerless in an emergency.
Here’s the truth:
The moment your child turns 18, you are no longer legally allowed to make decisions for them—even if you’re still paying their tuition, insurance, and phone bill.
You read that right. If your child ends up in the ER, hospital, or has a financial or legal emergency, you can’t step in without the right paperwork. No access to medical records. No ability to speak to doctors. No authority to help with finances.
That’s why this moment—the launch into adulthood—is the perfect time to sit down and complete three simple but powerful documents.
The Three Legal Documents Every 18-Year-Old Needs Before Leaving Home
1. Medical Power of Attorney
If your child is ever injured, unconscious, or otherwise unable to speak for themselves, this form gives you legal authority to make medical decisions on their behalf.
It also includes a HIPAA release, which allows doctors to share important health information with you—without it, even basic updates may be withheld.
2. Living Will (Advance Directive)
This document lets your child express their wishes about medical care, life support, and end-of-life decisions. It helps guide you, and their healthcare providers, if they can’t speak for themselves.
Bonus: It can also include preferences like dietary restrictions, hospital visitation, and spiritual care.
3. Durable Power of Attorney for Finances
From lost debit cards to lease issues, this gives you the ability to legally step in and help with finances if your child is incapacitated. You can pay bills, talk to banks, even apply for student aid if needed.
Without this, you’re stuck going to court.
Don’t Wait Until Something Happens
This isn’t just for worst-case scenarios. These documents are about freedom and preparedness—making sure your child is protected and you’re not stuck on the sidelines.
At Live Memento Mori, we guide families through this process with clarity and care. We’ll help your college student take this first step into adulthood with confidence—and give you the peace of mind every parent needs.
Ready to get started? Schedule your family session today.
You’ve spent 18 years raising them. Let’s make sure you can still protect them.
Because real adulthood doesn’t begin with a dorm key—it starts with a plan.
