Why College Students Need an Estate Plan: Protecting Young Adults with Advance Health Care Directives
When most people think about estate planning, they picture older adults with significant assets or families with children. But there’s an often-overlooked group that also needs protection: young adults heading off to college. At Cannon Legal Firm, we believe that every adult—regardless of age or wealth—deserves to have a voice in their medical care and the peace of mind that comes with proper legal planning.
They’re Adults Now—Legally Speaking
Once a child turns 18, they are legally considered an adult. That means parents no longer have automatic access to medical records or decision-making rights, even in an emergency. This can come as a shock to many parents who suddenly find themselves unable to help their child during a health crisis.
That’s where an Advance Health Care Directive comes in. This legal document allows your college-bound student to name someone—typically a parent or trusted adult—to make medical decisions if they become incapacitated or unable to speak for themselves. It also gives them the chance to express their wishes about treatments, life support, and organ donation.
Emergencies Happen
College students live busy, often high-risk lives. From sports injuries and accidents to unexpected illnesses, emergencies can arise at any time. Without an Advance Health Care Directive in place, you could face unnecessary legal barriers when your child needs you most.
Having this document can allow hospitals to communicate with you and follow your child’s healthcare preferences. It’s a critical safety net that can make all the difference during a stressful time.
Beyond Health: The Value of a Simple Estate Plan
In addition to an Advance Health Care Directive, it’s wise for college students to have a basic estate plan. Even if they don’t have major assets, they may have a car, a savings account, a laptop, or digital accounts they care about. For students with more substantial assets—such as an inheritance, investment accounts, or trust funds—an estate plan is even more important. A Durable Power of Attorney can also be useful, allowing someone they trust to handle financial or legal matters if needed.
Peace of Mind for the Whole Family
Estate planning for college students isn’t about being morbid—it’s about being prepared. It empowers young adults to take control of their future, ensures parents can support their children in emergencies, and provides clarity and comfort when it matters most.
At Cannon Legal Firm, we’re here to help families make this transition smoothly. Attorney Dana Cannon offers thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help your student step into adulthood with the right legal tools in place.
Start the school year with confidence. Schedule a consultation today.