
Getting money out of a custodial account can be a bit tricky, but it's a necessary step when the minor reaches adulthood.
You'll need to provide identification to prove your identity and age.
To get started, review the account documents to see if there are any restrictions or conditions attached to the account.
Understanding Custodial Accounts
Custodial accounts are a great way to help minors prepare for their future. The minor is the account owner, and as the custodian, you have control over the account until they reach the age of majority.
As the custodian, you can only withdraw funds for the benefit of the minor, including expenses related to education, healthcare, or other necessary expenses. You cannot use the funds for personal expenses or anything that does not directly benefit the minor.
Withdrawals can be tricky, and there are specific guidelines that must be followed to avoid penalties. You should be mindful of the amount you withdraw, as withdrawing too much may face penalties or tax implications.
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The tax implications of withdrawals depend on how you've set up the account. If you've set up a custodial account under the Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA), the minor is responsible for taxes on any earnings. If you've set up a custodial account under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), you may have more flexibility in terms of tax implications.
Only the custodian can request withdrawals and manage the account until the child takes ownership. Redemptions can be made at any time, but they must be for the benefit of the child beyond the normal cost of providing for them.
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Withdrawal Rules and Restrictions
You can withdraw money from a custodial account, but there are rules and restrictions to follow.
The minor is the account owner, and as the custodian, you have control over the account until they reach the age of majority. This is typically 18 or 21, depending on the type of account and state laws.

Withdrawals must be used for the benefit of the minor, including expenses related to education, healthcare, or other necessary expenses.
Beware of tax implications, as the minor may be responsible for taxes on any earnings. This is especially true if you've set up a custodial account under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA).
You can only withdraw funds for the benefit of the minor, and you cannot use the funds for personal expenses or anything that does not directly benefit the minor.
The age of the minor plays a crucial role in determining the tax implications of withdrawals. If the minor is under 18, any investment income is taxed at the parent's rate.
The purpose of the withdrawal also determines the tax implications. If the money is taken out for qualified educational expenses, it's tax-free. However, if the funds are used for non-qualified expenses, the earnings portion of the withdrawal is taxed at the minor's rate, plus a 10% penalty.
It's essential to keep track of all withdrawals and the purpose behind them, as this information will be necessary when it's time to file taxes.
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Types of Withdrawals

Understanding the different types of withdrawals permitted from a custodial account is crucial to avoid any penalties or tax implications.
As the custodian, you can make regular withdrawals for any reason, but be aware that there may be limits on the frequency or amount of withdrawals allowed.
Regular withdrawals can be made at any time, but it's essential to remember that the money in the account is intended to help the minor prepare for their future, so it's best to leave as much as possible in the account to accumulate over time.
Qualified withdrawals are made for specific purposes deemed "qualified" by the IRS, such as education expenses, medical expenses, or first-home purchases.
Types of Permitted Withdrawals
There are different types of withdrawals permitted for custodial accounts. Regular Withdrawals allow the account holder to take out funds for any reason, but may have limits on frequency or amount.
You can make withdrawals for qualified expenses, such as education, medical expenses, or first-home purchases. These withdrawals are considered "qualified" by the IRS and may have different tax implications.

Age-Based Withdrawals have age restrictions on when withdrawals can be made. Some custodial accounts may only allow withdrawals once the beneficiary reaches a certain age, such as 18 or 21.
Custodial accounts are designed to benefit the beneficiary, not the custodian. As such, custodians should be careful not to use the funds for personal expenses, even if they plan to pay the beneficiary back later.
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When Does the Former Minor Assume Account Ownership?
The former minor assumes account ownership once they reach the legal age of termination, which is usually between 18 and 21 years old, as determined by the state laws.
This age requirement can vary depending on the type of account and the state you live in. For example, with UTMA accounts, the beneficiary typically gains control at age 18, while with UGMA accounts, it's usually at age 21.
As soon as the minor reaches this age, the custodian's control of the account terminates, and the account needs to be transferred into a taxable non-retirement account for the former minor.
At this point, the former minor becomes the full owner and decision-maker of the account, with no tax consequences for the transfer.
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Best Practices and Considerations

Know the rules before making any withdrawals from a custodial account, as this can include age restrictions, withdrawal limits, and tax implications.
Communicate with your custodian before making any withdrawals to ensure a smooth process and complete necessary paperwork beforehand.
Tax implications should be considered when withdrawing funds, especially if the account type and withdrawal amount may be subject to taxes and penalties.
Accurate records of all withdrawals should be kept, including the date, amount, and reason for the withdrawal, to ensure availability in case of an audit or inquiry.
Be aware of fees associated with making withdrawals, such as transaction fees, wire transfer fees, or early withdrawal penalties, before making any transactions.
Only the custodian can request withdrawals and manage the account until the child takes ownership, so ensure that the custodian is aware of the withdrawal plans.
Redemptions can be made at any time, but they must be for the benefit of the child beyond the normal cost of providing for them.
Review the Terms and Conditions of the account and contact the operators of third-party websites if you have any queries about the withdrawal process.
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Tax Implications and Kiddie Tax

The tax implications of withdrawing money from a custodial account can be complex, but understanding the basics will help you avoid any surprises come tax season. The age of the minor plays a crucial role in determining the tax implications, with investment income taxed at the parent's rate if the minor is under 18.
The purpose of the withdrawal is also a key factor, with money taken out for qualified educational expenses being tax-free. However, if the funds are used for non-qualified expenses, the earnings portion of the withdrawal is taxed at the minor's rate, plus a 10% penalty.
The kiddie tax applies to unearned income up to a certain threshold, and over that threshold, the child will pay taxes at the parent's tax rate. To learn more, see IRS Publication 929.
Here's a summary of the tax rates for custodial accounts:
Tax Implications of Withdrawals from Custodial Accounts
The tax implications of withdrawals from custodial accounts can be complex, but understanding the rules can help you avoid any surprises come tax season.

Age matters when it comes to tax implications. If the minor is under 18, any investment income is taxed at the parent's rate.
The reason for the withdrawal also determines the tax implications. If the money is taken out for qualified educational expenses, it's tax-free.
Timing is crucial when it comes to taxes. If the minor takes out money in the same year that they earned it, they'll owe taxes on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.
If the minor is between 18 and 24 and is a full-time student, their investment income may be taxed at their rate, but only if it's less than $2,200.
The custodian's control of a Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) account terminates once the minor reaches the legal age of termination, usually between the ages of 18 and 21.
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The Kiddie Tax
The Kiddie Tax can be a complex and confusing topic, but understanding it is essential for parents and guardians who manage custodial accounts for minors. The Kiddie Tax applies to unearned income, such as investment income, up to a certain threshold.
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Custodial accounts are subject to the Kiddie Tax, unlike 529 plans and ESAs. To learn more about the Kiddie Tax, you can refer to IRS Publication 929.
If a minor's unearned income exceeds the threshold, they will pay taxes at their parent's tax rate. The threshold varies depending on the child's age and income level.
Here's a breakdown of the Kiddie Tax rates for minors:
*Earned income refers to wage earnings and unearned income refers to interest, dividends, capital gains, and other earnings from investments.
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Requesting and Managing Withdrawals
To request an account withdrawal, the custodial adult can redeem shares by telephone, online or in writing. You should communicate with your custodian before making any withdrawals to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Only the custodian can request withdrawals and manage the account until the child takes ownership. This is a crucial rule to follow, as it helps protect the account and its funds.

Before making any withdrawals, it's essential to understand the rules and regulations that apply to your specific custodial account. This includes age restrictions, withdrawal limits, and tax implications.
The custodian may be able to provide guidance on the best way to withdraw funds from your account. So, don't hesitate to reach out to them if you need help.
Depending on the type of account and the amount being withdrawn, there may be tax implications to consider. For example, if you're withdrawing funds from a 529 plan for non-qualified expenses, you may be subject to taxes and penalties.
You should review the Terms and Conditions of third party websites and contact the operators of such sites if you have any queries. This is a good habit to get into when dealing with financial transactions.
To ensure a smooth withdrawal process, keep accurate records of all withdrawals from a custodial account. This includes the date of the withdrawal, the amount withdrawn, and the reason for the withdrawal.
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Seeking Professional Advice

Seeking professional advice is crucial when getting money out of a custodial account. It may seem like a straightforward process, but there are rules and regulations to follow to avoid any legal issues.
Understanding the tax implications is key, and a financial advisor can help you navigate through this process. Custodial accounts have complicated tax rules that can be tough to figure out on your own.
Know the rules and regulations that apply to custodial accounts, which are different from regular savings accounts. There are limits on how much can be withdrawn and when, and a financial advisor can help you understand these rules.
Consider the purpose of the withdrawal before taking the money out of a custodial account. Is it for education expenses or a major life event? Understanding the purpose can help you determine the best way to withdraw the funds.
A financial advisor can help you plan for the future when withdrawing funds from a custodial account. They can help you understand how the withdrawal will impact your long-term financial goals and provide you with advice on how to achieve those goals.
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The Bottom Line

You've finally reached the end of this journey on how to get money out of a custodial account. The good news is that it's relatively straightforward, and you can start the process by simply signing a withdrawal request form.
The custodian of the account, usually a parent or guardian, will need to sign the form as well. The account beneficiary, the minor, doesn't have to sign anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the money in a custodial account?
The beneficiary owns the money in a custodial account once they reach the age of majority (usually 21). At that point, they gain control over the account's assets.
What expenses can be paid from a custodial account?
Expenses that can be paid from a custodial account include education costs, car purchases for the child, taxes on the account's income, and transfers to another child or family expenses
Sources
- https://www.schwab.com/custodial-account/custodial-transfer
- https://fastercapital.com/content/Custodial-Account-Withdrawals--Rules-and-Best-Practices.html
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/spending-childs-utma-money-illegal-358134
- https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/saving-college-custodial-accounts
- https://www.janushenderson.com/en-us/investor/resources/planning/explore-account-types/custodial-account/
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