The Newly Minted Adult Checklist
2026 Edition
Review these three pillars the month your child turns 18.
1. The Legal Safety Net
Ensure access when it matters most.
HIPAA Authorization
Allows healthcare providers to communicate with you in an emergency
Healthcare Proxy
Designates a decision-maker if your child is incapacitated
Durable Power of Attorney
Enables management of financial matters when needed
45 CFR § 164.502 • FL Stat. § 765.203 • UPOAA
2. Avoid the Academic Blackout
Access does not follow automatically after age 18.
Know the Rule
Education record rights transfer to the student
Complete a FERPA Waiver
Authorize access via the university portal to assist with billing, grades, and financial aid
20 U.S.C. § 1232g
3. 2026 Financial & Tax Benchmarks
Key thresholds to keep your strategy aligned.
Annual Gift Exclusion
$19,000 per individual
Lifetime Exemption
$15 million per individual
Direct Tuition Payments
Unlimited when paid directly to an institution and not counted toward gift limits
Direct Healthcare Payments
Unlimited when paid directly to a medical provider and not counted toward gift limits
IRC § 2503(b) • IRC § 2010(c)(3) • IRC § 2503(e)
