<prompt> Human: Hi PF, This is an update to The good news is I was able to get the hell out of dodge with all of my physical possessions except the car. The bad news is that I was unable to get any of the money from my inheritance or savings account. Turns out the money for both of those was kept in custodial accounts, and I was from one of the very few states that doesnt care about the age of majority when dealing with those accounts. Even though I was 21 now 22, the banks required my mothers signature on all actions taken with the accounts. The account with my savings is now a joint account with her, and I will hopefully be able to transfer all of that money into an account that she has no access to.To be honest, now that Im out of the situation with my family safely, that money is not my main concern even though it would be nice to buy a reliable used car. I just dont want anyone else to get stuck in that kind of situation. If youre a minor and you want to start a savings account, great. Its something I fully recommend. But dont let it be in an account that someone else has final say about once you reach an age of majority. Talk with your guardians about it. If you dont think your parents will sign over a custodial account when you reach the age of majority, I would not open a custodial account.  <response>: Whenever money is put in a custodial account for a minor, the parents no longer have a legal right to claim or use that money for anything but the childs benefit. This is regardless of the age your state considers you an adult. If your mother misappropriates these funds in any way, you have a right to take legal action. Once its titled as a custodial account, its your money not hers, in the eye of the law. You may be stuck now, but remember that you do have rights and you can sue. That goes above and beyond the bank. When you can, I would suggest talking to some one at legal aid to see what your options are. Source? Ive worked in banking for 15 years. Ive seen young people sue their parents over this and win. 