To open a custodial account, all you need is basic information about your child: name, birthday and social security number. Once it’s set up, you manage all the action in the account, which revolves around deposits and deciding which assets to invest in.

What is a custodial account for stocks?

What is a custodial account? A Fidelity custodial account, sometimes called a UTMA/UGMA account, is a brokerage account for investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and more. It can be a great way to save on the child’s behalf, or to give a financial gift. The money in this account belongs to the child.

How does a custodial Stock account work?

A custodial account is a financial account held in the name of a minor, usually by a parent, legal guardian, or another relative. If you are a parent or guardian of a young person, this gives you the opportunity to save and invest for your child while retaining full control of the account until they reach adulthood.

Why are stocks held in a custodian account?

In fact, stocks bought under pre-funded accounts are also held in the custody of the brokerage firms. Stocks bought under custodian accounts are charged a lower commission rate because the brokerage firms can lower their expenses. CDP charges a fee to the brokerage firms for keeping the stocks under them.

Can a custodian account be used as a brokerage account?

While we mentioned that most offer both CDP-linked brokerage account and custodian account, there are six brokerages that offer only custodian accounts to their investors. This means investors using these six brokerage accounts do not have the option of storing their investments in their CDP account.

When to open an E * Trade custodial account?

Open an E*TRADE custodial account – a brokerage account that a child can take over at 18 or 21. It is a great way to protect and build a child’s future.

What can you invest in with a custodial account?

You can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds and ETFs. Accounts are held under the minor’s name and social security number and there can only be one custodian per account.