When most people think of estate planning, they imagine older adults with significant assets or families to protect. But in reality, estate planning is essential for every legal adult—including college students. Once a teen turns 18, they are legally responsible for their own medical, financial, and academic decisions. Without the right documents in place, even their parents can be left powerless in an emergency.
At Jacobson Family Law, we believe peace of mind starts with preparation. Here’s why estate planning for college students isn’t just smart—it’s necessary.
Why College Students Need an Estate Plan
✅ They Are Legal Adults at 18
Once a child turns 18, parents no longer have automatic access to their medical, financial, or academic records. In the event of an emergency, parents would need to petition the court to obtain decision-making authority. This can cause unnecessary delays and complications during already stressful times.
✅ Emergencies Happen—Be Prepared
Accidents, illnesses, or unexpected medical emergencies can occur at any age. If a college student becomes incapacitated, their parents may want to help—but without proper estate planning documents, they may be legally barred from doing so.
Having an estate plan in place ensures that someone the student trusts—often a parent—can step in immediately to manage finances, make medical decisions, and communicate with doctors.
✅ Estate Plans Are Flexible
Estate plans aren’t static. They can (and should) be updated regularly—especially as major life events occur. College students can create their first plan at 18 and revise it as their circumstances change, such as after graduation, marriage, or acquiring new assets.
Essential Estate Planning Documents for College Students
These basic documents offer powerful protection and peace of mind:
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HIPAA Authorization Form
Allows healthcare providers to share medical information with designated individuals—such as parents—in the event of an emergency. -
Advance Medical Directive (Health Care Power of Attorney)
Grants a trusted person, like a parent, the legal authority to make medical decisions if the student becomes incapacitated. May also include a living will detailing end-of-life preferences. -
Financial Power of Attorney
Authorizes someone to manage the student’s financial affairs, such as paying bills, managing bank accounts, or filing taxes if the student is unable to do so. -
FERPA Waiver
Gives parents access to educational records like class schedules, transcripts, and academic performance, which are otherwise protected once a student turns 18. -
Last Will & Testament
While most college students don’t have substantial assets, a will ensures that any personal belongings, bank accounts, or digital assets are passed on according to their wishes. It also protects a parent’s estate if the student is named in their will.
Peace of Mind Starts with a Plan
Creating an estate plan for your college-aged child might seem unusual—but it’s a responsible step that ensures your family is prepared for the unexpected. It provides legal clarity, emergency readiness, and long-term protection.
Take Action Now: Legal Adulting 101
Want an easy, affordable way to get your college student started?
Check out our Legal Adulting 101 Course, now available on Stanstore. This course walks families through the key documents and decisions every young adult should make to legally protect themselves.
✨ Special Offer: Get it now at a discounted rate—for a limited time only!
🔗 Grab the Legal Adulting 101 Course Here
🎙️ Prefer to Learn on the Go?
Tune into our podcast, Divorce Diaries: Lessons from the Trenches, where attorney and mediator Cary Jacobson shares legal tips and real-world advice on family law, estate planning, and navigating life transitions. It’s the perfect companion for parents and young adults looking to stay informed and empowered.
🎧 Listen to the latest episodes here!
💬 Ready to Create an Estate Plan?
Let Jacobson Family Law help your family prepare with confidence.
📞 Call us at 443-741-1147 or
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