In a development that has reignited scrutiny over Hunter Biden’s finances, reports reveal that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considered felony tax charges related to a $39,820 withdrawal he made in 2019 from his daughter Maisy’s college savings account—commonly known as a 529 plan.
The issue? That money was never reported as income on his federal tax return.
What Is a 529 Plan—and Why It Matters
A 529 college savings plan is a tax-advantaged account designed specifically for education expenses. Parents or guardians can contribute to these plans over time, and as long as the funds are used strictly for qualifying educational purposes, they grow tax-free and can be withdrawn without penalty.
But if the money is withdrawn and used for something other than education, that withdrawal becomes taxable income—and is subject to both income taxes and possible penalties.
According to multiple sources familiar with the investigation, the IRS determined that Hunter Biden used the withdrawn funds for personal expenses, not for his daughter Maisy’s education. That decision triggered a red flag with federal investigators.
A Closer Look at the Allegations
Documents reviewed by investigators show that the $39,820 withdrawn from Maisy Biden’s 529 plan in 2019 was not declared as income on Hunter’s federal tax return that year.
Failing to report such income—particularly in that amount—can result in civil penalties or felony tax evasion charges, depending on the IRS’s assessment of the intent and pattern of behavior.
IRS investigators reportedly weighed bringing a felony charge against Biden based on this unreported withdrawal, as part of a broader investigation into his tax filings and financial activity.
Part of a Broader Federal Probe
This issue is just one piece of a much larger puzzle involving Hunter Biden’s financial conduct. In recent years, he has faced federal investigations concerning alleged tax violations, business dealings, and gun charges.
The tax investigation reportedly spans multiple years, with IRS and DOJ officials reviewing income streams from foreign business arrangements and scrutinizing his tax returns between 2014 and 2019.
According to whistleblower testimony and leaked documents, investigators had compiled substantial evidence that Hunter Biden underreported income, failed to pay taxes on time, and potentially misclassified certain personal expenses.
Where Things Stand Now
While the $39,820 college fund withdrawal was not charged as a separate felony, it factored into the broader concerns raised by federal agents about Hunter Biden’s tax compliance.
Critics argue that the IRS was pressured to tread lightly due to political sensitivities, while supporters claim the investigation was thorough and that Hunter’s legal team has worked to rectify any prior issues.
At the time of writing, Hunter Biden has faced misdemeanor tax charges and pleaded not guilty to other unrelated federal counts, including a felony gun charge. The investigation into his finances continues to unfold under intense public and political scrutiny.
Fallout and Family Ties
The fact that the money in question came from his own daughter’s college fund has added emotional weight to the case. Using funds intended for a child’s education for unrelated personal expenses—then failing to report it—has sparked widespread criticism.
While no details have been released on what the money was ultimately used for, the optics of the situation have drawn concern, especially given the Biden family’s high-profile status.
Whether or not the IRS eventually pursues felony charges, the situation underscores the importance of accurately reporting all income, even when it involves personal or family accounts.
As public interest in the case continues, the $39,820 withdrawal from Maisy Biden’s college fund remains a potent symbol in the broader investigation—one that raises questions not only about financial oversight, but also about accountability at the highest levels.
