Get Legal At 18
Hey fellas! So you just turned 18 and are now officially considered an adult. Congrats! Adulthood comes with responsibility, including getting your legal paperwork in order. Don't worry, it's not as boring as it sounds...I promise!
Here's what you need to have on hand:
ID: Whether it is a driver's license, passport, or state ID, you need to have some form of official ID that proves you are 18 and who you say you are. This comes in handy when you want to vote, buy a car, open a bank account, get a library card, get married, vote for the next American Idol, and more.
Social Security Card: This little guy is important for getting a job, applying for a federal loan, getting your driver's license, and accessing government benefits. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later for having this one!
Selective Service Registration: If you are between 18 and 26, you're required to register for the selective service. This is the way our government keeps a list of names from which to draw in case of a national emergency requiring rapid expansion of our Armed Forces. This registration ensures that a future draft will be fair and equitable. Failure to register is a felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and/or five years imprisonment. Who knows...one day you might become a superhero in the future and save planet earth!
Estate Planning Documents: I know...this one sounds serious, but it is important to have a will and power of attorney in case anything happens to you. A will is a legal document that spells out how you want your assets to be divided up when you're gone. A power of attorney appoints someone else to make decisions on your behalf if for some reason you are not able. These documents make sure your assets are in good hands and your wishes are carried out.
So there you have it! Don't freak out, just get these legal documents in order and you'll be ready to take on the world!
