Legal Prep for Your College-Bound Kid: It's Not as Boring as it Sounds!

Sending your kiddo off to college is a mix of pride, panic, and endless packing lists. But let's talk about something equally important (but way less fun to shop for): legal stuff.

Don't worry, we're not talking about mind-numbing paperwork. We're talking about peace of mind! These documents can be a lifesaver if something unexpected happens:

• Healthcare Power of Attorney: Basically, you're saying, "Hey, if my kid can't make their own medical decisions, I can!"

• Financial Power of Attorney: This one's for handling the money stuff. You know, tuition, rent, and those mysterious charges on their debit card.

• HIPAA Authorization: Gives you the green light to talk to doctors about your kid's health. Because let's face it, you're their go-to health expert.

• FERPA Waiver: This lets the college spill the tea on your kid's grades. Perfect for those "Mom, I'm totally acing it!" texts.

• Living Will and Healthcare Directive: These say what your kid wants if they can't speak for themselves. It's like writing a script for a medical drama, but hopefully with a happier ending.

Remember, you can’t trust everything you see on the internet (or pull from a google search), so talk to a lawyer to make sure you've got the right paperwork. And hey, while you're at it, grab copies of important stuff like insurance cards and social security numbers. Just in case.

Meagan Davis, Attorney at Maddox & Davis, is offering special pricing for College-Bound Kid Documents now through the end of August. To schedule a meeting, call the office at 479-394-6060 or email her directly at meagan@maddoxmaddox.com

Now, back to packing!

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice.