Coverdell Education Savings Account (CESA)
A tax-deferred savings account for a child’s education. Control of funds stays in the hands of the parent or guardian who established the account. Funds can be used for educational expenses from kindergarten through graduate school. CESA has a minimal impact on financial aid.
Account Details
Features and Benefits
- Your investments grow tax-free.
- Control of the funds stays in the hands of the parent or guardian who established the account.
- The funds can be used for educational expenses from kindergarten through graduate school.
- A CESA has minimal impact on financial aid.
Annual Contribution Limits
- CESAs allow a total contribution of $2,000 a year from all sources for children under age 18.
- Funds must be used by the time your beneficiary reaches age 30.
Eligibility
- Any parent or guardian can establish a CESA on behalf of a child.
- The child must be younger than 18 when the account is established.
Tax Considerations on Contributions
- Contributions aren’t tax-deductible.
- For federal estate tax purposes, contributions are excluded from your estate.
Control Over Account
- The parent (or guardian) account owner controls the assets until the beneficiary reaches age 30.
- CESA assets can be rolled over to a CESA or 529 college savings plan for an eligible family member of the original beneficiary.
Withdrawals
- You pay no federal income taxes when funds are withdrawn for qualified education expenses, (such as tuition, supplies, and room and board).
- Withdrawals taken for non-qualified expenses are considered taxable income and may also incur a 10% penalty.
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