President Trump announced the launch of a federal investment program that creates IRA-style accounts for children and provides a one-time $1,000 seed contribution for those born between 2025 and 2028. The administration says accounts went live on July 4 and the Treasury Department reported more than 6 million accounts were opened in the initial rollout.
The program targets U.S. citizens under age 18 who have a Social Security number. Families, employers and other private contributors may add money to the accounts over time, and parents can open accounts through the Internal Revenue Service. An IRS-linked mobile app will let account holders and families track investments.
The administration said that, combining individual contributions with the seed funds, about $800 million in new capital would be invested in the stock market for these accounts this week. "And I also think that we're going to be putting numbers in the budget which will be really spectacular," President Trump said, describing the administration's budgeting intentions for the program.
When beneficiaries turn 18, the funds may be used without penalty for qualifying expenses, including education, a first home or starting a business, the announcement said. The administration framed the accounts as a long-term investment in children that combines an initial public contribution with private saving.
Some financial experts cautioned the program could primarily benefit families who are already able to contribute, potentially widening disparities in wealth accumulation. Those experts said families with greater means are more likely to add to the accounts, increasing the gap between higher- and lower-income households.
There were no formal votes or legislative actions recorded in the announcement. The administration characterized the launch as an executive initiative; further details on eligibility verification, program oversight, and long-term budget authority were not specified in the initial statement. The Treasury Department was cited for enrollment figures and the administration indicated budget documents will include further numbers in coming budget cycles.