How to Help Your Child Build a Financial Foundation

When money is tight, putting money aside for the future can seem impossible. Rent, groceries and bills usually come first, but families may already have a head start when it comes to helping children build wealth.

Michael and Susan Dell deposited $250 into 530A (Trump) Accounts for 25 million children across the United States. The money went to children born between 2016 and 2024 in eligible ZIP codes. Families did not need to apply, and nothing has to be repaid.

"Every American child now has their own investment account," said Matt Lira, executive director of Invest America, a nonprofit that helps families understand investing. "It's in your child's name, it's built to grow and it's theirs from the very start. That's a real stake in America's future. Claiming it takes a few minutes, and your child begins life as an owner."

Children under 18 in the U.S. with valid Social Security numbers already have accounts in their names, and any money in them is invested so it can grow over time. Parents or guardians only need to claim the account. They can do this through the official iOS or Android app or by visiting the official website and signing in. Adding money is optional, but once the account is claimed, friends, family, employers and others can contribute.

"Parents and grandparents, please claim your child's account," said Susan Dell, co-founder of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. "These accounts are ready. They're waiting for you, and they have money in them. Claim your child's account and start adding money to their account and preparing a wonderful future for them."

Money Lessons That Cost Nothing

Claiming the account is only the beginning. The next step is helping children understand what it means. When kids know they own something that can grow, money lessons become more concrete. Everyday habits can help them get the most out of it:

• Show them how decisions are made. Many parents already compare prices, stretch grocery budgets and decide what can wait. Talking through those choices out loud can help children understand the difference between needs and wants.
• Give them a little money to manage. Birthday cash, allowance or earnings from chores, mowing lawns or babysitting can become practice money. Let children choose how much to spend and how much to save, then discuss the result.
• Explain saving and investing. Saving means setting money aside for something coming soon, like a bike. Investing means giving money time to grow over many years. 530A (Trump) Accounts offer a real example children can check occasionally to see how money can build over time.
• Talk about their goals. Ask children what they hope to have someday, such as a car, college, a trade, a business or a home. Knowing money is being saved or invested can make those goals feel more achievable.

Even Small Contributions Matter

If you can add to an investment account, even small amounts from time to time can have years to grow. Relatives can help as well. A little money for birthdays or holidays can build up over childhood. But if adding money is not possible right now, that is fine.

"In America, small beginnings can become extraordinary things," Michael Dell said. "When we invest in children's futures, we invest in America's future. We are so excited to see what they build."

Claim your child's account through the official app or at TrumpAccounts.gov.

Common Questions About 530A (Trump) Accounts

What is a 530A (Trump) Account?

It is a free investment account for U.S. children under 18, supported by the U.S. Treasury. The account is in the child's name, and the money is invested in hundreds of major American companies at once. That gives it the chance to grow over time without the family having to choose investments. The account also includes tax advantages, allowing the money to grow for years without being taxed along the way.

Does my child have one?

U.S. children under 18 with valid Social Security numbers were enrolled automatically, and nearly 70 million children already have accounts. Parents still need to claim the account to monitor its value and help it grow.

How do I claim it?

Download the official app on a smartphone or visit the official website. After confirming some information, you can claim the account. It only takes a few minutes and there is no cost.

Do I have to put money in?

No. Adding money is always optional, but claiming the account makes it possible for others to contribute even if you do not.

Can other people add money?

Yes. Parents, grandparents, other relatives, friends and even employers can add money. The annual limit is $5,000 per child. Other government or charity programs may also add money in the future.

How were children chosen for the $250 from Michael and Susan Dell?

Families did not apply, and children were not selected individually. The foundation started with the lowest-income ZIP codes using U.S. Census data and continued adding ZIP codes until it reached 25 million children. More information about eligibility is available at investamerica.org/dell.

My ZIP code wasn't included. Does my child still have an account?

All U.S. children with a Social Security number have an account. The ZIP codes only determined who received the extra $250.

When can my child use the money?

At age 18, the child can decide what to do with the money. They may keep it invested for retirement or use it for expenses such as education or a first home.

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