Investing on Behalf of Your Children

Investing on Behalf of Your Children

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Carol Crowley, your Edward Jones financial advisor. Member SIPC.

If you’re a dad, you’ll probably get some nice Father’s Day gifts. But your greatest gift may be your ability to help your children. You could start them in the world of investing – and make a few investments on their behalf. 

For starters, consider a 529 education savings plan – a tax-advantaged way to save for college. In some states, provided you stay within certain limits, it can also be used to pay for qualified K-12 expenses and registered apprenticeships. Consult your tax professional about your situation.

You also may want to establish a custodial account, known as either UTMA or UGMA. Some earnings in this account will be taxed at the child’s income tax rate.

And if your children have any taxable compensation, you might open an IRA on their behalf and offer to match some of their contributions as an incentive. You can’t contribute directly to the IRA yourself, but you can give your kids money for that purpose.

On Father’s Day, you can show appreciation for the gifts you receive from your children. But by investing in their future, you can gain some longer-lasting satisfaction.