Back to School: Why College Students in Tennessee Need a Power of Attorney

As Maryville families prepare for back-to-school season, one crucial step often gets overlooked: creating a Power of Attorney for college students. Once your child turns 18, you no longer have automatic authority to help in an emergency.

Amid all the hustle, one important item often gets overlooked: estate planning documents for your newly adult child.

Why Parents Lose Authority at 18

In Tennessee, the law is clear. Once your child turns 18, they are legally an adult. That means your authority as a parent changes overnight.

• Medical privacy laws (HIPAA) prevent doctors from sharing your child’s health details with you.
• Banks and financial institutions will not give you access to accounts.
• Housing or lease issues fall on your child, even if you are paying the bills.

As a result, if your child is in an accident or becomes seriously ill, you may not be able to help. Without the right documents, parents can find themselves locked out in critical moments.

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There are three key documents every family should consider. Together, they give parents the ability to step in if needed.

1. Durable Power of Attorney

This document allows your child to give you authority to help with financial matters. For example, you could handle bank accounts, deal with landlords, or sign important forms if they cannot.

2. Health Care Power of Attorney

This form authorizes you to make medical decisions if your child is incapacitated. Most importantly, it ensures that doctors can consult you during an emergency.

3. HIPAA Authorization

Even when your child can make their own decisions, a HIPAA release lets doctors share information with you. In short, it gives you access to updates when you need them most.

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A Local Perspective

Maryville may feel like a small town. However, our students often head to UT Knoxville, Pellissippi State, Maryville College, or schools across the country. Emergencies can happen anywhere, and distance makes them harder to manage.

With the right paperwork, your family gains peace of mind. You know that if something happens, you can step in quickly.

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Back-to-School Is the Perfect Time

College move-in marks the beginning of adulthood. Along with laptops, meal plans, and dorm supplies, make sure your child has the documents that protect them.

Preparing these forms now is simple. More importantly, it prevents confusion and stress later.

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Take Action Today

If your son or daughter is 18 or older, do not wait. A Power of Attorney and Health Care documents are essential for every family.

📞 Call Maryville Estate Planning at (865) 935-9769 to schedule a short consultation. We will help you prepare these protections before the semester is in full swing. a short consultation. We’ll help you get the right protections in place before the semester gets busy.