Tax Playbook · Giving, strategically
Gifting to kids (kiddie tax)
You can give investments to your kids through a UTMA or UGMA custodial account, but there's a catch called the kiddie tax. For 2026, the first $1,350 of the child's investment income is tax-free, the next $1,350 is taxed at the kid's low rate, and anything above $2,700 is taxed at YOUR rate. It applies to kids under 18 and full-time students ages 19 through 23.
Good for: Parents or grandparents gifting investments to kids under 18 through UTMA/UGMA custodial accounts.
Learn the basics
Recent articles & guides
- U.S. Bank: What is the kiddie tax? 2026 rules and thresholds
- Nolo: Kiddie tax 2026 — rules, rates and income limits
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Educational summary, not tax advice. Limits and rules change — confirm current law with your tax adviser.