Submitted By: Paul
Answered: April 1, 2014 8:30 am

Is there any penalty for using UTMA funds for sports-related travel expenses?

Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) accounts are owned by a minor, even though a parent or other adult acts as custodian. Once the minor reaches the age of majority (18 in most states), the funds belong to him/her. There are no tax penalties for withdrawals for any purpose—before or after the age of majority. However, custodians are subject to legal restrictions on the use of the funds. And financial institutions may impose penalties for early withdrawals from CDs or fees in other situations.

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Tax Glossary

Appreciation in value

Increase in value of property due to market conditions. When you sell appreciated property, you pay tax on the appreciation since the date of purchase. When you donate appreciated property held long term, you may generally deduct the appreciated value.

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