From their birth until their legal age, your child has been tucked safely under your wing. Now, sending them off to college fills you with pride and excitement, but not without worry and the instinct to protect them.
Once your child turns 18, they are legally considered an adult in Texas. That means you may no longer have the right to step in during a medical or financial emergency.
Legal documents every parent should consider
Estate planning is not just about wills and inheritances. It is also about creating a legal safety net for the people you love. Here are three key documents to consider when your child becomes a legal adult:
- Medical power of attorney: This document lets your child give you the legal right to make medical decisions if they are ever too sick or injured to speak for themselves. In an emergency, you will be able to step in quickly and act on their behalf.
- HIPAA authorization: This document allows healthcare providers to share medical updates and records with you, so you can stay informed about your child’s condition. Without it, doctors and hospitals may legally withhold information, even in emergencies.
- Durable power of attorney: This document lets you step in to help with your child’s finances, such as paying tuition or resolving bank issues, if they are unable to manage these tasks themselves. It stays in effect even if they become temporarily or permanently incapacitated.
For parents of college-bound kids, these estate planning documents provide peace of mind by ensuring you can help them in unexpected situations.
Estate planning is the gift of protection
Planning for the worst may feel discouraging, but estate planning does not have to be so stressful. Working with a Texas estate planning attorney can help lighten the load and ensure these documents are properly prepared. These can offer meaningful protection as your child enters this new stage of life.