The NIL Starter Kit

A parent's checklist for your young athlete's safe first NIL deal. Rules vary by state and change often — confirm current rules with your state high-school athletic association before signing anything.

1 · Is my state a "yes"? (5 minutes)

• Confirm your state allows high-school NIL.About 45 states do (incl. FL, CA, TX, NY). A few don't (IN, AL, WY, HI). Verify with your state high-school athletic association — the authoritative source.
• Florida? You're a yes — FHSAA Bylaw 9.9, effective 2024–25 school year.
• Confirm your athlete is eligible — a student-athlete at a member school (commonly grades 6–12).

2 · Get the consent & paperwork right

• Parent/guardian signs.A minor can't contract alone — and you should read every deal yourself.
• Complete any school/association forms (e.g., Florida's Affidavit of Amateurism / GA1). Check your school's compliance office.
• Get every deal in writing. Verbal "deals" protect no one.

3 · The 5 rules that protect eligibility

• Not for playing — no pay tied to stats, wins, or as a bribe to attend a school.
• No school stuff — no school/team names, logos, mascots, uniforms; no NIL activity during a game.
• No collectives — deals can't come from a booster "collective."
• Clean categories only — no gambling, alcohol, tobacco/vaping, cannabis, weapons, or adult content.
• Vetted help only — a rep may advise on NIL (never a pro playing contract) and must be a registered agent or licensed attorney.

4 · Contract red flags — never sign these

• An upfront "fee" to get you deals.Real offers cost you nothing. This is the #1 scam.
• Lifetime terms or grabbing your IP / likeness rights.
• Huge commissions (15–40%).Licensed pros cap near 3%.
• Pressure to "sign today." A real deal survives a night's sleep.

5 · Handle the money like a pro

• Set aside ~30% for taxesfrom every check. NIL is taxable self-employment income (1099); your athlete must file once net earnings hit $400.
• Open a custodial Roth IRA.Earned NIL income unlocks it (up to $7,500 in 2026 or their earnings) — a tax-free head start that compounds for decades.
• Think about college aid before you save.Cash in the kid's name (UTMA) is assessed up to 20% against need-based aid; a 529 is gentler (~5.6%).
• Keep records & use a separate account. Get a CPA once real money moves.

From nilforkids.com — a free, independent guide by Teddy Dupay (FHSAA Hall of Famer). Not affiliated with the FHSAA, NCAA, or any school. Not legal, tax, or financial advice; NIL rules vary by state and change often — confirm with your state association and consult a qualified attorney/CPA. Last reviewed: July 6, 2026.