SENDING YOUR CHILD OFF TO COLLEGE: ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS EVERY PARENT NEEDS

 Posted on July 31, 2024 in Uncategorized

 Written by Attorneys Andrew Boyer and Tony Tomkiewicz

As your child embarks on their college journey, it is a moment filled with excitement and a bit of anxiety. While you are likely busy preparing for dorm life, selecting courses, and ensuring they have all the necessary supplies, it is equally crucial to handle the legal and administrative side of things. Ensuring you have the right documents in place can make a significant difference in managing unforeseen circumstances and maintaining peace of mind.  Here is a comprehensive list of the essential documents you need when your child goes off to college:

1. Durable Power of Attorney (Financial): A Durable Power of Attorney (POA) for financial matters allows you to manage your child’s financial affairs if they are unable to do so. This can be particularly useful if your child encounters any type of financial emergency while at school, including managing their bank account, paying bills, or if they lose their wallet.

2. Durable Power of Attorney (Medical): A Durable Power of Attorney for medical decisions is equally important. This document grants you the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of your child if they become incapacitated or unable to communicate their wishes. With this document, you can help coordinate care with providers, access medical records, and is particularly critical in emergencies if you child cannot speak for themselves.

3. HIPAA Authorization Form: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects your child’s medical privacy. However, this can be a double-edged sword if you need to access their medical information during an emergency. A HIPAA authorization form allows healthcare providers to share your child’s medical information with you. Without this authorization, healthcare providers may be unable to disclose any information to you, even in critical situations.

4. FERPA Release Form (optional): The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) restricts access to your child’s educational records without their consent. A FERPA release form allows you to access their academic information, including, grades, transcripts, and any services relating to documented disabilities.

5. Medical Insurance Card and Information: Ensure your child has a copy of their medical insurance card and understands their coverage. Additionally, keep a copy for yourself.

6. Immunization Records:  Many colleges require proof of immunizations before enrollment. Make sure your child’s immunization records are up to date and that you have copies on hand. These records are crucial for sports participation; and requirements for living in on-campus residence halls.

7. Personal Identification Documents: Your child should have their personal identification documents readily available, including, Driver’s license or state ID, Passport (if studying abroad or for travel purposes), and their Social Security card. Having these documents accessible ensures they can prove their identity when needed, whether for employment, travel, or other official purposes.

8. Emergency Contact Information: Compile a list of emergency contacts, making sure this list is easily accessible in their phone as well as on paper.

Conclusion

Preparing for your child’s transition to college involves more than packing their bags and buying textbooks. By ensuring you have these essential documents in place, you will be better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way. This preparation not only protects your child but also provides you with peace of mind, knowing you can support them effectively from afar. As you both navigate this exciting new chapter, having these documents will help you stay connected and manage any situations that arise with confidence.  The Law Offices of Tedone & Morton, P.C. has skilled attorneys that can help you draft and execute the POA’s and additional documents to ensure your, and your students, peace of mind as they embark on the next exciting chapter of their life.  Call us today at 815-666-1285 to schedule your complimentary consultation!