What Happens Legally When Your Child Turns 18?
At 18, your child is now legally an adult in most states. Overnight, they gain the right to vote, marry, open credit cards, make medical and financial decisions, sign contracts, and live independently.
This major life milestone is called emancipation—and it comes with big legal changes for both of you.
Why You Need Powers of Attorney for Your Adult Child
If your child is injured or hospitalized, you won’t automatically have the right to make decisions for them. Even if you still pay their health insurance, you can’t make medical choices unless they’ve named you in a Health Care Power of Attorney.
Without this document, you may need to go to court to get guardianship—an expensive, time-consuming process.
A Health Care Power of Attorney allows you to:
- Make medical decisions in an emergency
- Access medical information (HIPAA-compliant)
- Avoid delays and red tape during a crisis
Financial Power of Attorney: Access When It Counts
You also won’t be able to access your child’s bank accounts, manage their bills, or help with taxes unless you’re named as their agent in a Financial Power of Attorney.
This document is essential if:
- Your child is temporarily incapacitated
- You’re co-managing expenses like rent or tuition
- Financial support is still part of your daily life
College and FERPA: What Parents Can’t See Without Consent
Even if you’re paying for your child’s college education, schools are prohibited from sharing academic records once your child turns 18—unless they’ve signed a FERPA Disclosure Form.
This law protects student privacy but can cause issues for parents trying to help.
Download the form here: FERPA Model Form
What to Discuss at 18: Adulting Basics
Turning 18 isn’t just about legal independence—it’s also a perfect time to prepare for life’s responsibilities. Discuss:
- How to pay bills and manage a budget
- Keeping copies of Social Security card and birth certificate
- How to register to vote
- What to consider when renting an apartment or buying a car
- Why legal documents like powers of attorney are so important
Powers of Attorney Can Prevent Crisis and Confusion
Having both medical and financial powers of attorney in place gives you the ability to step in if needed. These documents:
- Provide legal access without court involvement
- Save time and money during emergencies
- Reduce stress for both you and your child
Let Aging in Maine Help With Powers of Attorney and Estate Planning
We know that these transitions can be overwhelming—but they don’t have to be. At Aging in Maine, we can help you prepare the right legal documents for your adult child, and guide you through the estate planning process.
👉 Call us today at (207) 848-5600
Or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
