As parents, we’re all too familiar with signing paperwork on behalf of our children—whether it’s at the doctor’s office, dentist, or for school and extracurricular activities. But when your child turns 18, things change. They are now legally adults, and as much as we want to continue guiding them, we can no longer step in to manage their affairs without their consent. That’s where a Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) comes in.

From the moment your child turns 18, no one—not even you as a parent—can access their medical or financial records or make decisions on their behalf unless they’ve granted you the authority through a DPOA. This is crucial, especially as they enter new phases of life, like heading off to college, starting a job, or traveling. While we all take pride in watching our children spread their wings, it’s also natural to feel a bit nervous as they navigate the world on their own.

A DPOA is a simple yet powerful tool that ensures you can step in and manage their affairs if something unexpected happens. Whether they’re in an accident or need help handling legal matters, a Durable Power of Attorney allows you to act on their behalf, even when they’re not able to do so themselves.

At Gibbons | Neuman, we help parents ensure their children are prepared for the future with important estate planning documents like the Durable Power of Attorney. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help protect your child’s well-being—and give you peace of mind.