Trump Accounts: What Grandparents Need to Know
If you have grandchildren under 18, there’s a good chance they already have a new investment account in their name, and some may already have money in it. These are called Trump Accounts, and many families don’t know about them yet.
Here’s what the accounts are, who qualifies for the free money, and how you can help your family claim it.
What Is a Trump Account?
A Trump Account is a tax-advantaged investment account for American children under 18. The accounts were created by the 2025 tax law (the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) and opened for families to claim on July 4, 2026.
In October 2026, the U.S. Treasury finished automatically creating accounts for tens of millions of eligible children. That means most kids with a Social Security number already have an account. However, an account doesn’t do much until a parent or legal guardian claims it. Claiming is what activates the account so it can receive contributions and any money it qualifies for.
Who Gets the $1,000 from the Treasury?
Children born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028 are eligible for a one-time $1,000 deposit from the U.S. Treasury.
This deposit is not automatic. Even if the Treasury already created an account for your grandchild, a parent or guardian still needs to claim it and request the $1,000.
The $250 Dell Foundation Gift
Children who were born too early for the $1,000 may still have money waiting. Michael and Susan Dell pledged $6.25 billion to deposit $250 into the accounts of up to 25 million children born between 2016 and 2024 who live in qualifying ZIP codes. Deposits began arriving in October 2026.
Eligibility depends on where the child lives, and the gift is limited to the first 25 million children who qualify. Families can check eligibility with the ZIP code tool on InvestAmerica.org, the nonprofit managing the donation.
How Parents Can Claim a Trump Account
Only a parent or legal guardian can claim the account. The process takes place in the free official Trump Accounts app:
- Download the official Trump Accounts app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Verify your identity and your relationship to the child.
- Review the child’s information and accept the account terms.
Once the account is claimed, eligible children can receive the $1,000 Treasury deposit, and family members can start contributing.
How Grandparents Can Help
Even though grandparents can’t claim the account, they can still play a big role.
Spread the word. Many parents don’t know their child already has an account. A quick phone call or text could help your family claim money that’s already waiting.
Contribute to the account. Once a parent claims it, family and friends, including grandparents, can add money. Total contributions from family and employers are capped at $5,000 per child per year. Treasury deposits and gifts from charities like the Dell Foundation don’t count toward that limit. Keep in mind that family contributions are made with after-tax dollars and aren’t tax-deductible.
Think long term. Even small, regular gifts can add up over the years. A birthday or holiday contribution could grow into a meaningful head start by the time your grandchild turns 18.
How the Money Is Invested and When It Can Be Used
Until the child turns 18, money in a Trump Account is invested in low-cost U.S. stock index funds, and withdrawals aren’t allowed. At 18, the account generally follows the rules of a traditional IRA. Because the money is invested in the stock market, the value can go up or down over time.
Families with specific questions about taxes or how a Trump Account fits with other savings, such as a 529 college plan, should talk with a tax professional or financial advisor.
Protect Your Family from Scams
New government programs often attract scammers. Only claim or manage accounts through the official Trump Accounts app or TrumpAccounts.gov. Be cautious of anyone who calls, texts, or emails out of the blue asking for a child’s Social Security number, bank information, or payment to “unlock” an account.
Learn More
For official information, visit TrumpAccounts.gov.
While you’re thinking about your family’s financial future, don’t forget your own. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs through December 7. If you’d like help reviewing your coverage for 2027, the licensed agents at MedicareMall are here to help.