Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent spoke at a press conference on December 17, 2025, outlining the details and goals of the Trump Accounts initiative. The program aims to provide every eligible American child with an investment account from birth, in what Bessent described as “the President’s gift to the American people.”
Bessent explained that Trump Accounts are designed to make every American a shareholder in the nation’s economy. He stated, “Trump Accounts are not a government program. They are a radically new platform that returns us to a social contract anchored in individual ownership where everyone starts life on an investing journey.” According to Bessent, this approach seeks to foster financial literacy and create an ownership economy for future generations.
The funding for Trump Accounts will come from four sources: an initial $1,000 seed contribution from the federal government through the Treasury Department; additional donations from parents, friends, and employers; philanthropic contributions; and state government support. Children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028 will be eligible for the $1,000 Treasury deposit invested in an index fund. Families can claim this by checking a box on Form 4547.
Bessent highlighted projections based on historical stock market performance: “Assuming that growth rate continues, a single $1,000 deposit into a Trump Account at birth will grow to nearly $674,000 by the age of retirement.” He added that when recipients turn 18 they may use their accounts for retirement savings or other purposes such as home purchases or education.
Beginning July 4th—coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary—parents and others can contribute up to $5,000 annually per account. Bessent cited estimates from the Council of Economic Advisers suggesting these contributions could result in accounts exceeding $1 million by age 28 if maximum contributions are made each year.
Philanthropic involvement has already begun. Michael and Susan Dell have pledged $6.25 billion to support accounts for children under ten years old nationwide—a commitment described as “the largest single private commitment to U.S. children in our nation’s history.” Their donation provides an extra $250 per account for millions of children. Ray Dalio was also announced as joining what is called “The 50 State Challenge,” which encourages philanthropists across all states to participate.
State governments are considering participation as well; so far twenty states are exploring ways to supplement these accounts or tie additional funding to educational achievements like completing financial literacy courses.
Bessent concluded his remarks by stating: “Trump Accounts will not only restore the American Dream for the next generation; they will also make it more accessible than ever before.”
