Preparing for college is an exciting transition for a family. Alongside housing, classes and travel arrangements, it is useful to discuss how a young adult would like to receive help if a medical or financial issue arises. The conversation should respect the student’s growing independence.
Turning 18 changes a parent’s role
In Florida, a person generally becomes a legal adult at 18. A parent no longer has automatic authority to manage every aspect of that adult child’s finances or health care. The young adult chooses whom to authorize, what information may be shared and what assistance is wanted.
A parent may be the right person to name, but that should be the student’s informed decision. A trusted sibling, relative or another appropriate adult may also be considered, together with a suitable backup.
Medical information and health care decisions
A HIPAA authorization can make the student’s wishes about sharing medical information clear. It is inaccurate to say that HIPAA always prohibits a provider from speaking with a parent without a written authorization. Providers may share relevant information with consent or nonobjection and, in specified circumstances, use professional judgment when a patient cannot participate.
Those permitted disclosures are not the same as unrestricted access to every record or authority to make medical decisions. A Florida designation of health care surrogate can address decision-making and access to information. It can give specified authority immediately, while a person with capacity retains control of their own decisions, or provide authority under the applicable incapacity provisions.
Discuss the scope of the documents and the student’s privacy preferences. If the student will attend school elsewhere, consider the requirements and practices of that state and the institutions likely to receive the documents.
Financial assistance
A durable power of attorney can authorize specified help with financial and legal matters. A Florida power of attorney executed under current law generally becomes effective when signed, rather than only upon later incapacity. The student should understand that authority before granting it.
The scope can be tailored to the anticipated needs. Naming a trustworthy agent and a suitable successor, and discussing how the authority should be used, are important parts of the process. The document can reduce the need for a guardianship in some situations, but cannot guarantee that court proceedings will never be necessary.
Make the documents accessible
Keep signed documents where the authorized people can obtain them, and provide copies to relevant providers or institutions when appropriate. Review emergency contacts and explain whom to call. A will may also be useful where the student has property or particular wishes to address.
We can help young adults understand these choices and prepare a coordinated plan. The aim is to support their independence while making thoughtful assistance available when needed.
Sources: HHS guidance on disclosures to family and friends; Florida surrogate designation; Florida power-of-attorney effectiveness.
Updated October 26, 2026.