Michael and Susan Dell Pledge $6.25 Billion to Launch ‘Trump Accounts’ for 25 Million U.S. Children
Billionaires Michael and Susan Dell have pledged $6.25 billion to help 25 million American children open new investment accounts under President Donald Trump’s Invest America initiative, commonly referred to as “Trump Accounts.” The gift, announced on December 2, will provide $250 seed deposits for children aged 10 and under who were born before January 1, 2025—the qualifying date to receive the federal government’s $1,000 contribution to the accounts.
President Trump praised the Dells’ donation in a Truth Social post, writing: “TWO GREAT PEOPLE. I LOVE DELL!!!”
How the Program Works
The Invest America initiative, established under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, allows every child under 18 with a Social Security number to access a federally overseen savings and investment account. Families can activate the accounts starting July 4, 2026.
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Automatic government contribution: Children born on or after January 1, 2025, receive a $1,000 deposit from the Treasury at birth.
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Additional contributions: Families and community members may contribute up to $5,000 per year. Employers can contribute up to $2,500 annually, and philanthropic or government contributions are uncapped.
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Investment management: Accounts are professionally managed and invested in diversified index funds intended to grow over time.
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Use of funds: At age 18, children may withdraw funds for qualified purposes such as tuition, buying a home, or starting a business. Unused funds automatically convert to traditional IRAs to continue growing.
Michael and Susan Dell emphasized the practical impact of their donation. “It’s an incredibly practical and direct step to help families begin saving today,” they said. “We know this program will give young Americans more than a savings account—it will give them momentum, confidence, and opportunity.”
Expected Impact
The Dells’ $6.25 billion contribution is expected to reach nearly 80% of American children aged 10 and under across 75% of zip codes. Children older than 10 may also benefit if funds remain available after initial sign-ups.
Economists at the Milken Institute project that the $1,000 seed deposit could grow to more than $8,000 after 20 years based on historical market returns. Studies suggest that funded savings accounts for young children can improve educational outcomes, test scores, and lifetime earnings. Minority children from low- and moderate-income families may be three times more likely to attend college and 2.5 times more likely to graduate, according to Milken analysts.
However, the program has drawn some criticism. The Institute for Family Studies argued it may do little for parents facing high early-childhood costs, while analysts from the Tax Foundation warned that adding another savings vehicle could complicate the landscape of tax-preferred accounts.
A Call for Participation
The Dells hope their donation will encourage families to claim and actively fund the accounts. They also urged other philanthropists and employers to contribute, saying: “We believe this effort will expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and help more children take ownership of their future. Everyone has a role to play.”
Sign-ups for Invest America accounts are scheduled to open in July 2026. Eligible children will be auto-enrolled through the tax filing process, with an option for families to opt out.
