Estate Planning for Your Child the Moment They Become 18

Turning 18 is a major milestone—not just emotionally, but legally. Overnight, teenagers become legal adults, which means they gain new rights and responsibilities. While it’s an exciting chapter of independence, it also brings the need for serious planning. That’s where estate planning for your child comes in.

Did you know that in Florida, once your child turns 18, parents no longer have automatic legal rights to make decisions for their child? It is extremely important that your child have a healthcare surrogate, power of attorney, living will, and possibly even a Will in place once they become an adult. This ensures that they can be taken care of if something happens and avoids a guardianship.

Most people think estate planning is just for the wealthy or elderly. But in reality, every adult—yes, even an 18-year-old—needs a basic estate plan. Here’s why:

1. Parents Can No Longer Make Decisions

Once someone turns 18 in Florida, parents no longer have the automatic authority to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf. Even in an emergency, doctors and banks may be unable to speak with parents unless legal documents are in place.

2. Medical Emergencies Require Legal Clarity

Imagine your child is in a car accident and unconscious in the hospital. Without a health care surrogate designation or living will, you may be left out of crucial medical decisions. These documents allow young adults to name someone they trust to step in and speak for them if they can’t speak for themselves.

3. Financial Responsibility Comes Fast

Many young adults have part-time jobs, bank accounts, student loans, or even inherited funds. A durable power of attorney allows someone to manage those accounts temporarily if they become incapacitated or are unavailable due to travel, illness, or other circumstances.

4. Protecting Property and Personal Wishes

It may seem early, but having a simple will or trust helps ensure that any personal assets—whether it’s a car, savings, or digital property—are distributed according to the young adult’s wishes in the event of death. It also gives them a say in who should handle those affairs.

5. Laying the Groundwork for the Future

Estate plans are not set in stone. What starts at 18 can and should evolve over time—when they marry, have children, or acquire more assets. Establishing a plan early creates a framework that can grow with them.

Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Older Crowd

Helping your 18-year-old put an estate plan in place is one of the most responsible steps you can take as a family. It empowers them to make adult decisions while ensuring you’re able to support them legally if the unexpected happens.

If your child recently turned 18—or is about to—it’s the perfect time to schedule a simple estate planning session to review what needs to be in place in Florida. A few key documents can provide peace of mind and protection for whatever lies ahead.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step in securing your young adult’s future.