What is what to do when your child turns 18?

Turning 18 is a big milestone for both your child and you! Here's some key information about what needs to be done:

• Legal Adulthood: At 18, your child is legally an adult. This means they have the right to vote, enter into contracts, and make their own decisions regarding their healthcare and finances.

• Healthcare: Understand that you no longer automatically have access to your child's medical records. Your child needs to sign a HIPAA release form granting you permission to access their medical information and discuss their healthcare with their providers, if they wish to do so. Consider a durable power of attorney%20for%20healthcare so you can legally make health decisions if your child is unable to.

• Financial Matters: Your child can now open their own bank accounts, apply for credit cards, and take out loans. It's a good time to discuss financial%20responsibility, budgeting, and managing debt. They can also now execute legally binding contracts.

• Insurance: Review your insurance policies. Your child may no longer be covered under your health, auto, or homeowners insurance policies. Explore options for them to obtain their own insurance%20coverage.

• Education: If your child is going to college, discuss FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). FERPA protects your child's educational records, and you will not have access to them unless your child signs a release form.

• Taxes: Discuss tax%20responsibilities. Even if they are still living at home or in college, they may need to file their own taxes. Determine if they can still be claimed as a dependent.

• Legal Documents: Consider having your child execute a durable%20power%20of%20attorney (for finances) and a healthcare proxy or durable power of attorney for healthcare. This allows them to designate someone to make financial and medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.

• Voter Registration: Encourage them to register to vote.

• Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication. While they are now adults, they may still need your guidance and support.