New Trump Accounts Offer $1,000 Seed Funding for Eligible Newborns

Parents must act quickly to open accounts and claim the one-time federal contribution.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The new Trump Accounts are IRA-style savings accounts for eligible children under 18 that offer a one-time $1,000 federal government contribution for accounts opened between 2025-2028. Parents must submit Form 4547 to open an account and claim the pilot contribution, which will be deposited starting in July 2026. The accounts have specific rules around contributions, withdrawals, and approved uses of the funds.

Why it matters

The Trump Accounts aim to help families, especially those with lower incomes, start saving for their children's future. However, critics argue the accounts may disproportionately benefit higher-income households who can afford additional contributions beyond the federal seed money.

The details

To be eligible, a child must be under 18 at the end of the year the account is opened, be a U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number, and have an authorized individual (parent or legal guardian) open the account. Parents must submit Form 4547 to claim the $1,000 pilot contribution, which will be deposited starting in July 2026. Employers can contribute up to $2,500 per employee's child's account annually, and families/friends can contribute without a tax deduction. All contributions must be invested in low-cost index funds or ETFs with an expense ratio under 0.10%.

  • The $1,000 pilot contribution is available for children born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028.
  • Parents must submit Form 4547 to open an account and claim the $1,000 contribution, which will be deposited starting in July 2026.
  • Starting this summer, there will be an online portal to establish Trump Accounts.

The players

Trump Accounts

IRA-style savings accounts for eligible children under 18, with a one-time $1,000 federal government contribution for accounts opened between 2025-2028.

David Mellem

Enrolled agent at Ashwaubenon Tax Professionals.

Madeline Brown

Senior policy associate at the Urban Institute who questions the utility of Trump Accounts for lower-income households.

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What they’re saying

“About a third of families don't have $2,000 in emergency savings, so it's no surprise that they don't have the means to go start saving in [other plans] for their children.”

— Madeline Brown, Senior policy associate (Urban Institute)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.