Catonsville, MD asked in Estate Planning and Banking for Maryland

Q: Rules on checks written to minors. How do you do this correctly?

Can I write a check to my 2 year old grandson in his name. Of course, his father would have to endorse it. Would he have to set up a new account for the child?I recall getting a check as a child and it read pay to the order of my name (minor).

Please let me know. Thank-you

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: Maryland law allows for minors to hold funds in special accounts under the Uniform Gift to Minors Act. Such accounts have the minor's name PLUS an adult "custodian" who acts on behalf of the minor until they reach majority. The funds belong to the minor but the adult can make deposits and withdrawals on the child's behalf. You can always verify with the financial institution so that there aren't any problems with endorsing. Minor accounts are typically titled something like "(Parent) as Custodian for (Minor) under UGTMA."

While not legal advice I hope that this helps.

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