Can I leave property to a minor child?

A minor usually cannot manage inherited property directly. A custodian, guardian of property, or trust may be needed until the child reaches an age set by law or the governing document.

General information

• Naming a child does not name the adult who will manage the property.
• Court involvement may be needed when no management method is provided.
• Rules and age limits vary by state.

Service steps to consider

1. Considering whether to name a suitable adult or trust structure where allowed.
2. Considering whether to name backups.
3. A licensed attorney can provide advice about large gifts, special needs, or long-term control.

Quick check

• Are all names spelled the right way?
• Did I name backups?
• Do my account forms match my will?

How Complete Wills can help

Complete Wills' will-based questionnaire can record the names, beneficiaries, executor choices, guardian nominations, and other instructions used to prepare the included documents. The customer remains responsible for reviewing the result and completing the applicable state signing requirements. Support can explain fields but cannot tell the customer whom to choose or how to divide property. Customer support can explain website features and questionnaire fields, but it cannot choose documents, people, distributions, or legal terms, interpret a completed document, or explain how the law applies to a person's facts. Only a separately engaged licensed attorney may provide legal advice within the attorney's engagement.

Important limits

• A will does not control every asset. Title, contract terms, trust ownership, and beneficiary forms may control instead.
• Spousal rights, omitted-family rules, disinheritance, and will-signing rules vary by state and may require an attorney. This article gives general information only. A licensed attorney can explain how state law applies to a specific estate plan or document.