Q: My son is flying to another state with our best friend. I am wondering if I need to write some kind of letter stating that my son is with this person and that I know about it or something like that. He is 11 and I was planning on writing a letter in case he needs medical treatment. Also should it be notarized? Thanks.
A: Yes, you'll need a letter and it needs to be notarized. The letter can be very basic but should include your name, his name, the name of the person he is traveling with, that they have your permission to seek medical treatment and your contact info. Here's an example: I, Your Name, give my permission to Friend's Name to take my son, Son's Name, to Destination. In the event of an emergency, Friend's Name has my permission to seek medical attention for Son's Name. Signature Phone Number/Address You should also give your Friend a list of any and all medical conditions your son has, any medication he's on along with doses, and the name and contact info of your son's pediatrician. A copy of both the front and back of your health insurance card is a good idea as well.