Why Parents Should Consider a Power of Attorney for Their 18-Year-Old

Turning 18 is a major milestone for young adults. It’s the age when they gain legal independence, marking the start of new responsibilities and opportunities. But for parents, it’s also a moment to think about how they can continue to provide support when needed—and one of the most important steps is considering a Power of Attorney (POA) for their young adult.

At the Law Office of Cameron H.P. White, P.A., we’re committed to helping families make informed decisions about their future. Whether it’s estate planning, business matters, or legal guidance for young adults, we’re here to provide the support you need.

Let’s explore why having a POA for your newly independent adult might be one of the best decisions you make for your family.

Why You Need a POA for an 18-Year-Old

Many people assume that parents maintain certain rights over their children even after turning 18. But legally, that’s not the case. Without proper documentation, you might be powerless in situations where your child needs you the most. Here’s a closer look at why a Power Of Attorney  is so important for young adults:

Legal Adulthood

Once your child turns 18, they are legally considered an adult. This means you no longer have the automatic right to make decisions on their behalf, even in emergencies. A POA ensures that someone they trust—such as you—can step in if needed.

Medical Emergencies

Accidents and illnesses can happen to anyone, including young adults. As a parent, having a POA ensures that you can step in to make medical decisions for your child if they are hospitalized or unable to communicate. Without it, privacy laws like HIPAA can block you from accessing vital information or consenting to treatments on their behalf.

Financial Matters

Managing finances is a big part of adult life, and it can be overwhelming for someone just starting out. A POA enables you to handle things like paying bills, accessing bank accounts, or resolving legal matters if your child is incapacitated, studying abroad, or traveling.

Educational Matters

Although the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects a student’s privacy, it can also create obstacles for parents. A POA may help in specific cases, such as accessing records if your child becomes incapacitated or assisting with tuition payments. However, remember that FERPA has limitations, and a POA might not grant full access to all educational records.

Digital Assets

Managing online accounts and digital information is more important than ever in today’s digital age. From social media accounts to banking apps, a digital asset POA ensures someone can step in to handle these matters responsibly.

Choosing an Agent

Selecting the right person to act as the agent in a POA is critical. This role requires trust, responsibility, and good judgment. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Trustworthiness: In most cases, parents are the natural choice for this role, as they already have their child’s best interests in mind.
• Responsibility: Look for someone reliable, organized, and capable of handling potentially stressful situations. This could be a parent, a close relative, or even a trusted family friend.
• Communication: The agent should be someone your child feels comfortable discussing their wishes with. Open communication ensures the agent understands their preferences and can act accordingly.

By making a thoughtful choice, you can ensure the agent is prepared to step into this important role when needed.

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions

It’s natural to have questions or reservations about granting someone authority through a POA. Let’s address some common concerns:

Limited Scope

Parents often worry about infringing on their child’s independence, but a POA is designed to take effect only in specific situations, such as medical emergencies or financial incapacitation.

Customization

POAs are highly flexible. They can be tailored to cover only specific situations or grant limited powers for a defined period. For instance, your child might choose to grant authority solely to manage financial accounts while they’re studying abroad.

Potential for Misuse

While it’s true that a POA can be misused, this risk can be minimized by choosing a trustworthy agent. Additionally, safeguards can be built into the document, such as requiring a second signature for certain decisions or limiting the scope of authority.

Peace of Mind

For families, having a POA in place provides reassurance that someone trusted is ready to step in during challenging times. It’s not just about managing emergencies—it’s about creating a sense of security for the young adult and their loved ones. By taking this step, you can ensure peace of mind, knowing that you’re prepared to support your child during life’s unexpected challenges.

Florida Residents: Is Your Young Adult Legally Prepared?

At the Law Office of Cameron H.P. White, P.A., we’re dedicated to helping families plan for the future with confidence. If your young adult is turning 18 or has already celebrated this milestone, now is the perfect time to discuss their legal needs.

Contact us today at (407) 792-6011 or visit our Contact page to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to protect your family and prepare for whatever comes next.