Estate Planning for College Students and Young Adults From New Jersey

Joseph D'Urso
May 29
3 min read

Sending a child off to college comes with a long checklist. Housing, tuition, meal plans, and class schedules often take center stage. One important item that many families overlook is estate planning.

Once a child turns 18, they are legally considered an adult. Parents no longer have the automatic authority to access medical information, make healthcare decisions, manage finances, or communicate with educational institutions on their behalf. While most families never expect to face a medical emergency or unexpected crisis, having the proper legal documents in place can help ensure that trusted family members are able to step in when needed.

Why Estate Planning Matters After Age 18

Many parents are surprised to learn that even if they continue to support their child financially, they may be unable to make medical decisions or access important information if their child becomes seriously ill or injured.

Without the appropriate legal documents, parents may need to seek court approval before being allowed to act on behalf of their child. This process can create delays during situations when timely decisions are critical.

A basic estate plan can help young adults maintain control over their wishes while allowing trusted individuals to assist if necessary.

Important Documents for College Students

HIPAA Authorization

Federal privacy laws limit who healthcare providers can communicate with regarding a patient's medical condition and treatment. A HIPAA authorization allows a young adult to designate trusted individuals who may receive medical information if needed.

Medical Power of Attorney

A medical power of attorney authorizes a trusted person to make healthcare decisions if the individual becomes unable to communicate or make decisions independently.

Durable Financial Power of Attorney

This document allows a trusted individual to assist with financial matters, including banking, bill payments, and other financial responsibilities if the young adult becomes incapacitated or otherwise unable to manage these matters.

FERPA Authorization

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records. A FERPA authorization can allow designated individuals to access academic records and communicate with educational institutions when appropriate.

Advance Healthcare Directive

An advance healthcare directive allows a young adult to document their healthcare preferences and provide guidance regarding medical treatment decisions if they become unable to express their wishes.

Last Will and Testament

Even young adults often have bank accounts, vehicles, digital assets, personal belongings, and online accounts. A will provides instructions regarding how these assets should be handled and who should oversee their affairs.

Planning for Young Adults Before Problems Arise

Estate planning is not only for retirees or high-net-worth individuals. Basic planning documents can provide important protections for young adults as they begin college, enter the workforce, travel, or live independently.

Taking care of these documents before an emergency occurs can help families avoid unnecessary legal complications and provide greater peace of mind for everyone involved.

Estate Planning for College Students in Bergen County with The Law Offices of Joseph D'Urso

If your child is preparing for college or recently turned 18, now is an ideal time to review whether they have the legal documents needed to protect themselves and their family. The Law Offices of Joseph A. D'Urso helps families throughout Bergen County and surrounding New Jersey communities create estate plans tailored to their needs and goals.