Understanding the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) While the UTMA offers a way to build a tax-free savings account for minor children, the assets will be counted as part of the custodian’s taxable estate until the minor takes possession.

Can a UTMA account be used for anything?

Any expenditures from an UGMA / UTMA are legally required to be for the benefit of the child and – importantly – not be considered part of parental obligations. Parents are obligated to feed, house and clothe their children. Therefore you cannot use UGMA / UTMA money for food, housing and clothing.

What is a custodial account UTMA?

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.

Can a minor be the custodian of an UGMA account?

UGMA and UTMA custodial accounts allow adults to make a financial gift to a minor and also name someone (including themselves) as the custodian of the account.

When to transfer assets to a UTMA account?

UTMA accounts allow assets to be transferred to a minor child with an adult “Custodian,” who controls the assets for the benefit of the minor until they reach the age of majority in their state. By law, the transfer of the assets is irrevocable and must be used for the minor’s benefit. 1

How old do you have to be to open a UTMA account?

It allows minors to receive gifts and avoid tax consequences until they become of legal age for the state, which is typically age 18 or 21. While the UTMA offers a way to build a tax-free savings account for minor children, the assets will be counted as part of the custodian’s taxable estate until the minor takes possession.

What should I do with my UGMA and UTMA account?

The custodian’s job is to keep it safe and invest it wisely so that the minor will benefit from it someday. UGMA and UTMA accounts are often used to pay for college, but can also be used for any expense the minor incurs—anything from basic costs of living to leisure activities like team sports.