August brings a familiar rhythm — the slow shift from summer to fall, the rush of school supply shopping, and for some families, the bittersweet preparation of sending a child off to college. Amid the move-in lists and last-minute errands, there’s a piece of planning many parents never think about until it’s too late.

The moment your child turns 18, your legal relationship to them changes in ways most families don’t expect.

Eighteen Changes Everything

Once your child reaches the age of majority, they’re considered a legal adult. That means you no longer automatically have access to their medical information, the ability to make healthcare decisions on their behalf, or the legal authority to manage their financial matters — even if you’re still paying their tuition, covering their insurance, and providing their support.

For most families, this transition happens quietly and without consequence. But when something goes wrong — a serious accident, a sudden illness, a mental health crisis, or even a routine hospitalization — the legal limitations can become painfully clear at the worst possible moment.

The Documents That Help

Three relatively simple documents can address most of these concerns, and they’re worth putting in place before your child leaves for school.

The first is a healthcare power of attorney. This allows your child to designate someone — typically you, as a parent — to make medical decisions if they become unable to communicate. Without it, a hospital may not be willing or able to involve you in care decisions, even in an emergency.

The second is a HIPAA authorization. This gives healthcare providers permission to share your child’s medical information with the people they’ve designated. Many parents are surprised to discover that without it, even getting basic updates from a hospital or doctor can be difficult.

The third is a financial power of attorney. This allows your child to authorize someone to handle financial matters if they’re unable to do so themselves. This can be important if your child is studying abroad, is incapacitated due to illness or injury, or simply needs help managing accounts during a busy semester.

It’s About Empowerment, Not Control

It’s worth saying clearly: these documents aren’t about taking authority away from your young adult. They’re about your child choosing, in advance, who they would want involved if something happens. That’s a meaningful act of trust on their part, and a meaningful gift to the family that loves them.

Many families have this conversation together, often with input from the attorney. Most young adults appreciate the clarity and are glad to have the matter handled before they leave.

A Word About Your Own Plan

This is also a good moment to take a look at your own estate plan. If your children are becoming adults, the language in documents you signed years ago — when they were small — may no longer fit. Guardianship provisions may be unnecessary. Distribution structures may need to be revisited. The people you named as executors or agents may need to be updated.

Major life transitions are natural prompts for an estate plan review. The start of a new school year is as good a time as any.

Our attorneys have helped more than 600 Middle Tennessee families establish their legacy, and we’d be honored to do the same for yours.

If you’d like help putting these documents together for your college-bound child — or refreshing your own plan as your family enters a new chapter — our office is here to help.