Off to College? Why Your 18-Year-Old Needs More Than a Laptop—The Vital Paperwork Every Parent Should Know About
When your teen turns 18 and heads off to college, it’s a huge milestone—for both of you. But as they toss their cap in the air and start packing up their room, most families aren’t thinking about something just as important as laptops and bedding: legal adulthood and the shift it brings to your rights as a parent. Once your child turns 18, you suddenly lose access to their medical and financial information—even in an emergency. That’s why having the right documents in place is vital before move-in day.
Let’s break down the essential paperwork every California family should prepare….
A Quick Word on Turning 18 in California
Legally, 18-year-olds in California are considered adults. This means parents no longer have automatic access to medical records, can’t make healthcare decisions, and won’t be able to handle financial or school matters without the proper permissions. Planning ahead means you can be there for your child, even if they’re miles from home and facing the unexpected.
California Advance Health Care Directive
A statutory Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD) is the gold standard for naming someone (like a parent or other trusted adult) to make medical decisions if your college student can’t. Unlike temporary forms or hospital limits, the California AHCD is durable and widely accepted—covering both medical decision-making and end-of-life wishes.
Why does your college student need this?
If your child is in an accident or incapacitated, you’ll need legal authority to communicate with doctors and make decisions.
Without it, California providers will look to the courts for decisions—not necessarily parents.
How to get it:
The California AHCD form is available from attorneys, local hospitals, or the California Attorney General’s website. It must be completed by your (adult) child, signed, and either witnessed by two adults or notarized.
HIPAA Authorization: Breaking Down the Privacy Wall
HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is the federal law that safeguards patients’ medical privacy—including (and especially) college-aged adults. Even though your child may be miles away, most California providers cannot disclose any health information or billing details without your child’s written OK.
Why do you need a HIPAA release?
Without a signed authorization, doctors, hospitals, or campus health clinics can’t legally share health info—even in emergencies.
A HIPAA release isn’t automatic. Your student must fill it out, specifying what information can be shared and with whom.
California tip:
Some colleges have their own HIPAA forms for campus clinics; others require the standard form. Check with the school’s health center before move-in. Also, ensure the release covers mental health and billing discussions if you want the full picture.
How to get it signed:
You can find sample HIPAA release forms online, but many families opt for attorney assistance to customize access and ensure legal validity.
California Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) for Finances
Suddenly, your “baby” is an adult with a checking account, tuition bills, and maybe their first credit card. Should they need help—whether ill, studying abroad, or caught up in a legal snafu—a Durable Power of Attorney enables a parent (or other trusted adult) to handle financial matters on their behalf.
What can a DPOA cover for your student?
Managing bank accounts or paying bills if your student is traveling or incapacitated
Handling financial aid issues or tuition payments at the school
Signing leases or dealing with housing contracts in an emergency
California requirements:
To be valid, the DPOA must be signed by your student before a notary public. Remember, this document is powerful—your child should choose the agent with care, and review it regularly.
This info is CRUCIAL for your peace of mind — and allows your child to focus on creating lasting memories (and making it to early lectures.)
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