President Donald Trump said Monday, July 6, 2026, that the government had deposited the first $1,000 into more than 500,000 Trump Accounts for children.
Trump made the announcement while ringing the opening bell for the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq from the Oval Office.
The U.S. Treasury described the event as part of the official launch of Trump Accounts.
Trump Accounts are designed for U.S. citizen children under 18 who have Social Security numbers.
The federal $1,000 pilot contribution is for eligible children born after December 31, 2024, and before January 1, 2029, according to IRS Notice 2025-68.
The official Trump Accounts website says every American child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, can receive the one-time Treasury contribution if they meet the rules.
The accounts are a new type of traditional individual retirement account for children.
Parents or guardians manage the account while the child is young. The account belongs to the child, who gains control at age 18.
Families can add money, and contributions from parents, relatives and others are generally capped at $5,000 per year during the child’s growth period.
The IRS guidance says Trump Account money must be invested in eligible funds during childhood.
Those investments generally must track an index of mostly U.S. companies, such as the S&P 500, and must meet low-fee rules.
That means the accounts are tied to the stock market. Balances can grow over time, but returns are not guaranteed and the value can rise or fall.
Several major companies and donors have pledged support for the program.
The Treasury release said more than 50 companies have committed to offer Trump Account contributions for children of their employees.
Reports have named Visa, Dell, Comcast and Micron among companies or donors supporting the effort. Micron pledged $250 million, according to Reuters.
Supporters say Trump Accounts can help children build wealth, learn about investing and gain a direct stake in the U.S. economy.
Sen. Ted Cruz said the program is meant to make more children owners in American businesses.
Critics say the program may help wealthier families more because they are more likely to afford extra contributions over many years. They also warn that families should compare the accounts with other tools, such as 529 college savings plans.
The rollout comes as the cost of living remains a major political issue before the November 2026 midterm elections.
Trump has promoted the accounts as a way to give children born without wealth a financial head start.
The program’s long-term impact will depend on how many families open accounts, how many employers contribute, and how the market performs over the years before the children turn 18.