Do You Need a Health Care Power of Attorney in Illinois at Age 30?
Date: 09/25/2025
Author: Prime Law Group
Most people think of a Power of Attorney for Health Care as something for later in life—when retirement is around the corner, or when health issues become more common. But in reality, this document can be just as important for someone in their 20s, 30s, or 40s.
Here’s what you need to know about whether to put a Health Care Power of Attorney in place now, or wait until later.
What Is a Health Care Power of Attorney?
In Illinois, a Power of Attorney for Health Care (POA-HC) lets you name a trusted person—called your agent—to make medical decisions for you if you can’t speak for yourself. It covers everything from routine care decisions to major life-support choices.
Without it, Illinois law uses the Health Care Surrogate Act, which sets out a legal “priority list” of who makes decisions (spouse, adult children, parents, siblings, then close friends). That may not always be the person you’d choose.
Why Consider It Now, Even in Your 30s?
✅ Advantages of Having One Now
- Prepared for the unexpected. Accidents, surgeries, and sudden illnesses don’t wait until you’re older.
- You choose who decides. You can pick your partner, sibling, or friend—not just the “default” person under Illinois law.
- Prevents family conflict. Avoids fights between relatives over what care you would want.
- Covers unmarried couples. If you’re not married, your significant other won’t automatically have decision-making authority without a POA.
- Peace of mind. Once signed, it’s done—you can update it later if your life changes.
❌ Reasons Some People Wait
- Your life may change. Relationships, marriages, divorces, and moves might cause you to update the document later.
- Younger adults are lower risk. Statistically, you may not need it right away.
- Extra paperwork. It’s another legal document to think about, even if you may never use it.
How to Create One in Illinois
Illinois provides a statutory short form for a Health Care Power of Attorney. It’s straightforward and legally recognized across the state. The form must be signed and witnessed by one adult (not your agent, doctor, or family member).
The document can always be revoked or updated as your circumstances change.
The Bottom Line
At 30, you’re not too young for a Health Care Power of Attorney. Think of it like insurance: hopefully you won’t need it, but if you do, it can make all the difference for your loved ones.
For most Illinois adults, it’s smart to put one in place now, then revisit it after major life events like marriage, children, or divorce.