When your kids get ready to leave the nest, be sure to have a Power of Attorney for them.
This past Spring, Tarina, our Client Relationships Coordinator, had a front row seat to some new Edwards Group babies. The baby robins hatched from their beautiful blue shells at the end of April in a tree outside of the office, and within a couple weeks had flown the nest. Much like our own human babies, it happened very fast.
As Fall approaches, many human “babies” will be leaving the nest to attend college. It’s very important, among other things, that you have a Power of Attorney for them in case of an accident or illness.
When Your Own “Babies” Leave the Nest, Be Prepared with a Power of Attorney
Once a child turns 18 and goes away to college (or off on their own), you can no longer make decisions for him or her. So what types of issues might arise that would require that you have a POA for them to act on their behalf?
- Illness or accidents: if your child is over the age of 18 and is in an accident, just because you’re their parent does not entitle you to find out what’s happening medically. Imagine your child needs emergency surgery and is 8 hours from home. The doctors are not required, and in fact are prohibited, from speaking with you without your child’s approval.
- After a tragic accident, as the parent, you would not be able to help pay bills or deal with your child’s bank accounts without some legal authority like a power of attorney.
As always, we’re just a phone call away. If, after reading this, you think you might need a POA for your child who is flying the nest, give us a call at 217-726-9200 to set up a free phone consultation. We’ll talk about the specifics of your situation and recommend the best next step to take.