Tomorrow, my sweet little love nugget of a nephew graduates from high school.
I’m in total disbelief. One minute I was changing his diapers, and now he’s taller than me and heading off into the world. 😭🎓
And while most families are busy filling up Target carts with dorm room decor, twin XL sheets, and LED lights (because apparently everything glows now), I can’t help but think about the things you can’t grab on aisle seven.
You see, once your child turns 18, you no longer have the legal right to access their medical, financial, or academic records—even if they’re still on your insurance and living under your roof.
Which is why I always say: Don’t just send them off with a shower caddy. Send them off with legal protection, too.
I asked my friend and estate planning attorney, Kristen Rajagopal of Bequest Atlanta, a Georgia-based law firm, to weigh in on two essential documents every college-bound kid should have:
1. Power of Attorney
This lets you step in and make financial decisions if they’re ever unable to. Kristen explains:
“A power of attorney allows parents to manage their child’s financial affairs if they become incapacitated. Without it, you may not be able to access their bank accounts or sign important documents—even in an emergency.”
2. Advance Directive for Health Care
This authorizes you to make medical decisions on their behalf if they can’t. Kristen adds:
“It’s especially important for students who are living far from home. It ensures their wishes are followed and helps avoid conflict in stressful situations.”
Kristen even offers a College Care Package for Georgia families—$500 to ensure your college-aged child has both documents prepared and ready before move-in day. Read more on her blog if you’re curious.
3. Digital Legacy & Online Access (This one’s my personal PSA.)
Encourage your child to set up tools like Apple’s Legacy Contact, Google’s Inactive Account Manager, and yes—even Facebook’s Legacy Contact (I know, I know… Facebook). These tools ensure that if something happens, someone they trust can manage or access important digital accounts.
I know. This probably isn’t what you want to be thinking about as you celebrate your kid’s next big chapter. But it’s one of the most loving, empowering things you can do for them—and for yourself.
Got a graduate in your life? Feel free to forward this along. I promise: future-you will be glad you did.
