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Question

Does my child need all four legal documents, or just some of them?

Answer

Each of the four documents — healthcare power of attorney, HIPAA authorization, durable financial power of attorney, and FERPA waiver — serves a distinct function. For example, a HIPAA authorization allows communication but not decision-making, and a healthcare POA allows decision-making but does not release records. Most families benefit from having all four in place before their child starts college.

Related FAQs

What if my child doesn’t want to sign a FERPA waiver?

My child has a custodial Roth IRA. What happens to it when they turn 18?

Should I discuss the UTMA with my child before they turn 21?
Family & Health Estate Planning Educational Planning Parenthood Higher Education Healthcare & Medicare FAQs
Last Updated July 13, 2026
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