Coverdell Education Savings Account


Coverdell Education Savings Account

An account into which one may deposit funds on a tax-deferred basis, on the assumption that they will be used to pay for the education of the account holder. The funds are invested in a portfolio, much like an IRA or another retirement account. If the funds are in fact used for education, withdrawals from a Coverdell account are tax-exempt up to the total cost of education. Importantly, any tax liability on a Coverdell account is assessed at the account holder's bracket, rather than the contributor's. This protects the account holder from an excessive tax liability in the event a wealthy parent made most or all of the contributions. It was formerly called an education IRA.

Coverdell Education Savings Account

A special individual retirement account opened on behalf of a child under age 18. Contributions of up to $2,000 annually may be made by anyone who meets specified income limits. Contributions are not tax-deductible, but earnings grow tax-deferred until withdrawn. Money withdrawn prior to the child turning age 30 to pay for elementary, secondary, or postsecondary education expenses after high school is not subject to federal income tax. Formerly called Education IRA.

Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA)

A tax-favored savings plan under which any number of taxpayers may contribute up to a total of $2,000 per year per eligible beneficiary. Contributions are nondeductible. Earnings withdrawals are tax free and penalty free if they do not exceed the amount of qualified education expenses for the year.