My Child Turned 18. Now what?

Essential Legal Documents Every Iowa Parent Should Know About

In Iowa, as in most states, your child becomes a legal adult the day they turn 18. That might feel a little surreal, especially if they’re still living at home, heading off to college, or just starting their journey into adulthood. But here’s the catch: once your child turns 18, you lose the legal authority to access their medical records, manage their finances, or even speak with their doctor in an emergency—unless certain documents are in place.

Whether your young adult is preparing for college, entering the workforce, or exploring a gap year, here are the essential legal documents every Iowa parent should consider:

1. Healthcare Power of Attorney (Medical POA)

This Iowa-specific form allows your child to designate a parent or other trusted adult to make medical decisions on their behalf if they are incapacitated. Without it, even in a crisis, you could be left out of the loop.

2. HIPAA Authorization

HIPAA privacy laws prevent medical providers from sharing health information, even with parents, unless your child signs a release. A simple HIPAA authorization ensures you can be contacted and informed if your child is hospitalized or receiving care.

3. Durable Power of Attorney (Financial POA)

This document allows you to act on your child’s behalf for financial or legal matters, like handling a bank issue, managing a lease, or assisting with taxes. In Iowa, a properly executed durable POA can provide peace of mind and practical support.

4. FERPA Waiver (for College Students)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) restricts access to student academic and financial records. With a FERPA waiver, your child can authorize their school to share grade reports, tuition info, and more.

Need Help Getting Started? JB Consulting Can Assist. These are simple documents, but they carry enormous value. At JB Consulting Firm, we help Iowa families navigate this important transition with practical, compassionate support. If you have questions, need templates, or would like assistance coordinating these documents, we’re here to help.

Your role as a parent hasn’t ended. It's just evolving.