There’s a lot of excitement when your young ones leave the nest to begin a new chapter in their lives. There are also endless details to confirm, and in the flurry of all the activity, it’s important to have a financial and health care plan in place so your child has everything they need whether near or far. Here are some suggestions from a knowledgeable estate planning attorney about the documents your students should take with them to college.
Documents Your College Student Needs
Some of these you might have already, while others might require your lawyer’s input and development. An estate planning consultation should help define the details.
Health insurance cards
Most parents cover their child’s health care while they’re students, but make sure they have copies of these cards in case of an emergency.
Social Security card
While in most cases a physical copy of the card isn’t necessary, you can order a few replacement copy for your child or give them the original.
Passport
Whether they’re preparing to study abroad or jetting off for summer break, don’t let them leave home without this.
Medical records
As they move away from pediatrician care, it’s time for your child to start minding their health. Make sure they have access to their medical records either through an online portal or a printed summary of health conditions.
HIPAA waiver
Legally, it’s important that you still have information about your adult child’s health while they’re covered by your insurance policy, but this is harder to do from a distance. Make sure both you and your child have a signed HIPAA waiver on file.
FERPA waiver and release
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects your student’s information and allows them to choose what to release in different areas, such as grades, tuition statements, medical details, and more. Learning institutions require all students to sign FERPA waivers and releases.
More Documents Your Students Should Take With Them to College
Your estate planning attorney might also recommend the following:
- Health care surrogate designation. Also known as a health care power of attorney, this allows someone else to make decisions if your child isn’t able to do so after an accident or injury.
- Living will. Talk with your adult child about the importance of outlining their wishes if they have to be put on life support and what medical personnel are allowed to do.
- Durable power of attorney. There are a lot of financial and legal details to handle as a young adult. If they establish a durable power of attorney, especially to handle major financial matters such as an inheritance or educational trust, this permits your adult child to work with another person who acts as an agent of these affairs until they’re ready.