A Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) account is an account into which property is set aside for a minor’s benefit.  Whether a UGMA or UTMA account is used depends on the state in which the account is established.

Transfers made to a UGMA or UTMA account are irrevocable and belong to the child in whose name the account is registered; however, the account is controlled by the custodian until the child reaches a certain age, which varies by state (usually 18 or 21).