When children turn 18, parents lose access to their financial and medical information, regardless of whether the parent is depositing money into the young adult’s accounts or providing his/her health insurance.

Because of this, young adults should have three key documents in place in preparation for possible medical emergencies that could render them unable to make decisions and act on their own behalf both medically and financially.

• Medical Records (HIPAA) Authorization;
• Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare and Living Will; and
• Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Matters.

 A HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) Authorization permits medical providers to release medical information to a designated person. Keep in mind that young adults attending school or working out of state may need an authorization for both their home state and school/work state.

A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare and Living Will designates a person to make healthcare decisions for a young adult if he/she is unable to do so. This document takes effect if a young adult lacks capacity to make their own healthcare decisions, and it outlines their wishes about life-extending medical treatment. Although it may be uncomfortable to contemplate, it is important to have a designated decision-maker and documented medical care decisions in case of crisis, especially for young adults entering dangerous trades or playing college sports.

A Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Matters designates a person to access the young adult’s bank accounts and credit cards in the event he/she becomes incapacitated. Absent incapacity, the DPOA may also allow the designated agent to sign documents for them, including registering a vehicle and filing a tax return on their behalf.

Attorneys Sarah Rubury and Shawna Bentley are able and ready to assist you in putting these important documents in place.