It’s One of the Biggest Legal Changes Parents Never See Coming

For 18 years, you’ve signed permission slips, scheduled doctor appointments, picked up prescriptions, spoken with teachers, and made important decisions for your child.

Then one birthday changes everything.

When your child turns 18, the law generally considers them an adult—even if they still live at home, attend high school or college, remain on your health insurance, or rely on you financially.

Many parents are shocked to discover they no longer automatically have the legal authority to receive medical information or make decisions during an emergency.

What Happens at Age 18?

Turning 18 changes many legal rights and responsibilities.

Parents generally no longer have automatic authority to:

• Speak with physicians
• Receive hospital updates
• Access medical records
• Consent to medical treatment
• Obtain educational records
• Handle financial matters if their child becomes incapacitated

Privacy laws are designed to protect adults—including young adults just beginning college.

Imagine This Scenario

Your freshman is injured while away at college.

The hospital calls to say they have been admitted.

When you ask to speak with the physician, you’re told that because your child is an adult, staff may be limited in what they can discuss.

It’s not because the hospital doesn’t care.

It’s because federal privacy laws protect your child’s information.

Documents That Can Help

Parents should consider having their young adult execute:

• HIPAA Authorization
• Durable Power of Attorney
• Living Will
• FERPA Authorization

Together, these documents can help families navigate emergencies more smoothly.

Planning Is Easier Than You Think

These documents can often be completed in a single appointment and may provide invaluable peace of mind.

Learn about our College Student Protection Packages before your student leaves for school.