Young Adult & College Planning in Michigan

Why Turning 18 Changes Everything—Legally

Estate Planning Partners of Michigan PLLC

Lansing, Michigan

Why Do Young Adults Need an Estate Plan?

Most people think estate planning is only for older adults or people with significant assets. In reality, once a child turns 18, important legal rights change overnight.

In Michigan, when your child turns 18, parents are no longer legal guardians. This means parents automatically lose the legal authority to make medical or financial decisions—even in emergencies.

What Parents Lose When a Child Turns 18

Without legal documents in place, parents generally cannot:

  • Access medical records
  • Make medical decisions
  • Speak with doctors or hospitals
  • Access bank or credit card information
  • Pay bills on a child’s behalf
  • Communicate with landlords or access apartments
  • Obtain information about car loans, insurance, or utilities

Even something as simple as calling a utility company or asking about a missed payment may be legally prohibited.

Why College Students Are at Higher Risk

College students often live away from home, travel frequently, and manage finances independently. If an accident or illness occurs, parents may be unable to help when it matters most.

Most Young Adults Do Not Need a Trust—But They Do Need a Plan

While most young adults do not need a trust-based estate plan, they absolutely need basic legal protections. At a minimum, every young adult should have:

  • Medical Power of Attorney
  • Financial Power of Attorney
  • Health Care Directives

Medical Power of Attorney

This document allows a trusted person to access medical information and make decisions if the young adult cannot do so themselves.

Financial Power of Attorney

This document allows a trusted person to handle financial matters such as paying bills, managing accounts, or addressing urgent financial issues.

Planning Ahead Prevents Crisis

Young adult planning is simple, affordable, and avoids court involvement. Completing these documents before college or independent living begins is one of the most responsible steps a family can take.

Why Choose Estate Planning Partners of Michigan PLLC?

Located in Lansing, Michigan, Estate Planning Partners of Michigan PLLC focuses exclusively on estate planning and protective planning strategies for families. We help parents and young adults create practical plans that grow with them.

Schedule a Consultation

If your child is 18 or older, now is the time to plan. Contact Estate Planning Partners of Michigan PLLC to put the right protections in place.