Michael and Susan Dell Donate Billions to Support Children’s ‘Trump Accounts’: Parents’ Guide

Millions of American children who did not meet the eligibility criteria for new federally funded accounts will each receive $250 deposits to initiate their accounts, thanks to a $6.25 billion contribution from technology billionaires Michael and Susan Dell.
The Dells explained their inspiration for this philanthropic donation came from the federal program championed by President Donald Trump, which his Administration has named “Trump Accounts.” This initiative is set to establish $1,000 investment accounts for American infants beginning next year.
“What inspired us most was the chance to expand this opportunity to even more children,” the Dells stated in a . “We believe this effort will expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and help more children take ownership of their future. And we believe everyone has a role to play.”
Here’s what parents should understand about this development.
What are “Trump Accounts”?
The “Trump Accounts” will function as tax-deferred investment accounts that guardians can establish for eligible children under the age of 18. For infants born in America after December 31, 2024, and before January 1, 2029, the government will make a single $1,000 contribution to each account, which will be privately managed by the beneficiary’s guardians. The accounts are designed to “track a stock index and allow for additional private contributions of up to $5,000 per year,” according to the .
When these children reach 18, they will have the option to withdraw money from their accounts to finance their education or a new business, among other potential uses.
The White House has declared that these accounts, which are being established under Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” that the President signed into law over the summer, will put children “on a course for prosperity from the very beginning.” The Dells commended the program in their press release.
“This automatic $1,000 deposit by the federal government gives every American newborn a transformative head start,” they remarked. “These investment accounts are simple, secure, and structured to grow in value through market returns over time. At age 18, these young Americans can have a financial foundation for continued education, job training, home ownership, or future savings. It’s a simple yet very powerful idea.”
However, some financial experts have expressed reservations regarding the program’s effectiveness, suggesting that its benefits are not as significant as those offered by other tax-shielded savings options, such as 529 college savings accounts.
What does the Dells’ contribution achieve?
The Dells’ donation will extend the reach of the Trump Accounts, providing an initial $250 deposit to 25 million additional accounts for children who were born prior to the eligibility date for the federal government’s $1,000 contribution.
Who qualifies for the benefit funded by the Dells?
Children aged 10 and under who were born before 2025 are eligible for the $250 funded by the Dells’ donation. Children above the age of 10 may also qualify, “if funds remain available after initial sign-ups,” the Dells noted.
To be eligible for the benefit, children must also reside in a ZIP code where the median annual household income is $150,000 or less.
Children who receive the automatic $1,000 deposit from the federal government are not eligible for the $250 deposit from the Dells.
Invest America, a nonprofit organization that is assisting the Treasury Department in creating these accounts, projects that the Dells’ contribution will reach nearly 80% of children aged 10 and under across 75% of zip codes in the U.S.
When can eligible children with accounts receive the $250 deposit from the Dells?
The approximately 25 million children will receive the $250 deposit once their guardians activate their respective “Trump Accounts,” according to .
How does one sign up for an account?
Every child under 18 will be eligible for a Trump Account starting on July 4, 2026, as stated by Invest America. However, the specific details on how these accounts will operate and the enrollment process have not yet been disclosed.