Many parents are starting to ask this question, and it's a good one. A young adult power of attorney is an essential legal document that all young people need when they reach 18 years of age. Most parents assume that they have automatic authority to handle decisions for their adult children if they encounter an unexpected illness or accident that leaves them incapacitated.

However, once a child turns 18, parents no longer have the authority to make medical or financial decisions for their children. Power of attorney forms authorize parents to help their adult children manage financial, legal and health care decisions as needed.

Without a power of attorney in place, parents are hamstrung as to how to help their children and hindered in their efforts to advocate for their best interests. If your child becomes incapacitated and has not signed powers of attorney, family may be required to ask a court to appoint a guardian or conservator to handle decisions. This can be a complex and expensive process overseen by a court. Power of attorney forms eliminate this concern.

Every state requires that these legal documents can only be signed by someone who is 18 years or older. In Alabama and Nebraska, you must be over 19 years old to sign. 

Copies of your GradDocs package documents are valid to use just like the originals. Its important to keep the originals in a safe place though so you know they are protected and can be copied again in the future.