Warning
Info
Warning
Info
Simple English definitions for legal terms
UTMA
Read a random definition: registered representative
A quick definition of UTMA:
The Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) is a law that lets grown-ups give things like money, art, and property to kids without making a special trust. The grown-up or a helper takes care of the things until the kid is old enough to take over. When the kid is old enough, they get to control the things. The kid doesn't have to pay taxes on gifts up to $15,000 a year, but they might have to pay taxes on more than that. UTMA can make it hard for kids to get financial help for school because they own the things.
A more thorough explanation:
The Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) is a law that allows property to be transferred to minors without establishing a formal trust. This law expanded on the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act and was adopted by most states.
Under UTMA, all kinds of property such as bonds, real estate, and art can be gifted to a minor. The donor or a custodian manages the property for the minor’s benefit until the minor reaches a certain age. Once the child reaches a specified age set by the state, the child will have full control over the property.
For example, a grandparent can gift a piece of real estate to their grandchild under UTMA. The grandparent or a custodian will manage the property until the grandchild reaches a certain age, usually 18 or 21 depending on the state. Once the grandchild reaches that age, they will have full control over the property.
Gifts to the minor are exempted up to $15,000 a year from Federal taxes, but the minor will be required to pay taxes beyond this amount. Also, UTMA transfer allows the gift to be taxed based on the minor’s tax rate.
However, a downside of the UTMA is that it can reduce or make a minor ineligible for financial aid since the property is owned by the minor.