When the wrapping paper is gone and the toys are put away, many parents and grandparents begin thinking about gifts that truly endure. One powerful way to extend the spirit of giving beyond the holidays is by investing in a child’s future. Financial gifts—when thoughtfully planned—can support education, build long-term wealth, and provide security that lasts far longer than any item under the tree.
This year, Asset Advisors has worked with many clients to coordinate holiday/year-end gifting by establishing custodial accounts, either as taxable brokerage accounts or custodial Roths. These accounts help children learn about saving and investing while building assets for future goals such as a first home, business venture, or retirement. One consideration is that these accounts will become the child’s responsibility at age of majority.
For families with more complex needs or long-term intentions, trusts can offer greater control, protection, and flexibility—especially when planning for multiple generations or specific milestones. We just helped a client open trust accounts for their four grandchildren, but there were many questions to consider first. It is important that we work with your attorney to execute what you intend: how the account grows; who is responsible for capital gains/income taxes; who benefits from the income vs the principal during the life of the trust; revocable or irrevocable; how the assets are protected from probate, divorce, or creditor claims; and how to choose a responsible trustee.
We’ve also advised many of our clients on opening 529 college savings plans. These plans allow money to grow tax-advantaged when used for qualified education expenses, and contributions from parents, grandparents or others can make a meaningful difference over time. Even modest, regular gifts can compound into significant support for college, trade school, or other educational paths.
Because each family’s situation is unique, it’s essential to talk with a qualified financial advisor before making these decisions. Asset Advisors acts as your fiduciary team to help evaluate tax implications, ownership rules, and long-term goals to ensure your gift aligns with your values and your family’s needs.
Give us a call at 706-650-9900 to discuss how with the right guidance, your next gift can become a lasting legacy—one that helps turn your hope for the next generation into reality.
The information in this communication is educational and general in nature and should not be construed as specific investment, tax, or legal advice. Individuals should seek advice from their wealth advisor or other advisors before undertaking actions in response to the matters discussed. No client or prospective should assume the above information serves as the receipt of, or substitute for, personalized individual advice. This represents the current opinions of Asset Advisors and presents information that may change. Nothing contained in this content may be relied upon as a guarantee, promise, assurance, or representation as to the future. All tax laws and regulations discussed are subject to change. Investing involves risk including loss of principal. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. This is prepared using third party sources considered to be reliable; however, accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. The information provided will not be updated any time after the date of publication. Services and investment advice are only provided pursuant to an advisory agreement between Asset Advisors and its client.
