Can parents withdraw from custodial account?

Asked by: Rodrick Considine  |  Last update: February 7, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (69 votes)

Can You Withdraw Money From a Custodial Account? Yes, money can be withdrawn from custodial accounts, as long as it is used "for the benefit of the minor," a vague term that includes, but isn't limited to, educational costs.

Can parents withdraw money from a minor account?

The moment it gets deposited into a children's long-term savings accounts, it also becomes your child's property. Therefore, any withdrawals you make can only be withdrawn and used for things that benefit the child (e.g., school expenses, college tuition, etc.).

Who owns the money in a custodial account?

When a beneficiary reaches the age of majority (21 in most states), the custodian must turn the account over to him or her. At that time, the beneficiary will become the owner of the custodial account, controlling all of its assets.

What are the limitations of a custodial account?

The drawbacks: You can't change the beneficiary of a custodial account once it's established. Your child can use the money however they want after reaching a certain age, and investment income in custodial accounts may trigger the kiddie tax. The account can impact financial aid eligibility.

What happens to a custodial account when the minor turns 18?

Upon turning 18, your daughter becomes the legal owner of the custodial account, and you no longer have any control or authority over the funds.

What are the rules for UTMAs and how are they taxed?

44 related questions found

Can you pull money out of a custodial account?

As the custodian, you can withdraw money from a custodial account if you need to use it to pay for something that will benefit the minor. You can't take the money back yourself, or give it to someone else.

Can a parent close a custodial account?

9 A custodial account is set up in the minor's name. Because the account is irrevocable, the beneficiary of the account may not change, and no gifts or contributions made into the account can be reversed.

Can a parent access a custodial account?

No. Money and assets deposited into a custodial account immediately and irrevocably become the property of the child.

Can a parent close a child's bank account?

If the account is in trust for the child, it's the parent's account, and they can close it any time they like.

Can a custodial account be revoked?

Custodial accounts can hold gifts of cash or investments from parents, grandparents and other adults. Once the gift is made, the donor/transferor gives up all rights to the assets, the minor becomes the owner and the gift may not be revoked or changed. Funds in an account like this must be used to benefit the minor.

Do parents pay taxes on custodial accounts?

Opening a custodial account for the child in your life can be an excellent way to set them up for future financial success. But, as with anything related to money, you must consider the tax consequences. You may owe taxes at both your rate and the child's, and they might even have to file a tax return.

Which is better, 529 or custodial account?

If you're looking for tax advantages, you probably want to consider a 529 plan. Using funds from a custodial account on education does not come with tax benefits. However, the IRS considers the minor the owner. That comes with a perk.

Can you transfer ownership of a custodial account?

Under the laws that govern custodial accounts, including the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), account custodianship ends and the beneficiary becomes eligible to assume control of the account at a specified age—typically 18 or 21, depending on the state.

Can parents take their child's money?

Tough Times, Tough Talks. It's not illegal to take money from your kids in most cases, although, of course, there are exceptions, like if the child's money is in a specific trust and you abuse the funds.

How do I withdraw money from my child's account?

A legal guardian or parent must provide authorisation for any withdrawals that are not made in person at the bank branch. Once a minor reaches the age of majority, they can access the funds in their account and make withdrawals without the need for a legal guardian or parent to authorise them.

What is the difference between a youth account and a custodial account?

The Fidelity Youth® Account is a teen-owned taxable brokerage account. It is owned by the minor, who makes all the investment decisions. This is different from a Roth IRA for Kids, which is a custodial account that an adult opens and manages on behalf of a child under age 18 who has their own employment compensation.

What to do when you can't handle your child anymore?

What to do when you feel you can't cope with parenting anymore
  1. Start with accepting your limitations. ...
  2. Set boundaries. ...
  3. Reset your expectations. ...
  4. Let go of some control. ...
  5. If you feel the need to shout – go out! ...
  6. Switch off the parenting advice. ...
  7. Check the basics: Sleep, diet, and exercise. ...
  8. Find some support.

Can parents access a child savings account?

Yes, the adult trustee can withdraw money from this NatWest kids account without any notice. Just remember that daily limits will apply when making online, telephone or mobile banking withdrawals.

At what age can you take your parents off your bank account?

Minors do not have direct access or control over the funds until they reach legal age. However, once the minor reaches age 18, 19, or 21 (depending on the state), the custodian can deliver the funds to the minor, and account becomes theirs and they are free to do whatever they want with the money.

Can the child withdraw money from a custodial account?

Withdrawals: Withdrawals from custodial accounts must be used for the benefit of the minor. Once the minor reaches the age of majority, they can use the money for any purpose without any restrictions.

What are the downsides of a custodial account?

Custodial accounts come with specific benefits and drawbacks. The main advantage is the account's flexibility. Another benefit is that custodial accounts are relatively inexpensive compared to trusts. The chief disadvantage is that custodians lose control of the money once the minor reaches the age of majority.

What is not permitted in a custodial account?

Explanation: The investment that would NOT be allowed in a custodial account is uncovered call options. Custodial accounts are typically used for minors, and they have certain restrictions on the types of investments that can be made.

Can a parent withdraw money from child account?

Under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UMTA), money deposited into a UTMA account typically can't be withdrawn except by the child at the appropriate age. A UTMA custodian may be able to use some custodial assets for the "use and benefit of the minor."

How do I get out of a custodial account?

While the custodian can determine how funds are used, they cannot undo their contribution. Once the minor beneficiary reaches adulthood, they gain control of the account and can fully access and use the funds. If the minor passes away before reaching adulthood, the account becomes part of their estate.

Who is the owner of a custodial account?

To establish a custodial account, the donor must appoint a custodian (trustee) and provide the name and social security number of the minor. The donor irrevocably gifts the money to the trust. The money then belongs to the minor but is controlled by the custodian until the minor reaches the age of trust termination.