Many people think that power of attorney documents are only for older adults or those facing serious health issues, but in reality, every adult—no matter how young—should have them drafted, stored safely and updated whenever necessary.
Once a person turns eighteen, parents or guardians no longer have the automatic legal authority to make decisions on their behalf. Without power of attorney documents in place, even a simple medical emergency or financial matter can become complicated if a young adult is unable to act for themselves. Having power of attorney documentation in place can help to make these scenarios both manageable for an affected adult’s loved ones, and focused on the affected adult’s needs and preferences.
Why make this effort?
If you have not yet explored this subject, start by processing the fact that a power of attorney gives someone the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you are physically unable to do so (likely due to severe illness or injury). This can be an unnerving thought, but it can also be an empowering one.
There are two main types of power of attorney documentation: financial power of attorney and medical or healthcare power of attorney. A financial power of attorney allows a trusted person—often a parent, sibling or close friend—to manage bank accounts, pay bills or handle legal or academic matters. A medical power of attorney, sometimes called an advance healthcare directive, allows someone to make healthcare decisions if a young adult is injured, hospitalized or otherwise incapacitated.
Consider what might happen if a college student is in a serious accident and becomes unconscious. Without a healthcare power of attorney, doctors may not be able to share medical information or take direction from the parents. Similarly, if a young adult studying abroad loses access to their bank account or needs help with a legal document back home, no one can step in unless a financial power of attorney has been signed.
These documents do not mean giving up independence. They simply help to ensure that if something unexpected happens, a trusted person can step in quickly to manage important matters. Power of attorney documents can also be limited in scope or duration, allowing flexibility depending on individual needs.
Creating these documents early in adulthood is not a sign of fear—it’s a sign of responsibility. With properly drafted powers of attorney, even very young adults can protect themselves and better ensure that their loved ones have the authority to help when it matters most.
